As the NBA trade deadline approaches, keep an eye on expiring contracts. They’ll have value on the open market. Teams searching for cap relief next summer will happily move an expiring deal in return for another one.
That said, a team could trade an expiring contract for another one. After all, there are good players on expiring deals. One team is looking for cap relief, and the other is looking for some immediate help.
For example, Gordon Hayward of the Charlotte Hornets is productive. He’s on an expiring deal, but he could help a team looking to win now. Could the Miami Heat make a move for him?
NBA Trade Proposal: Miami Heat Land Charlotte Hornets’ Gordon Hayward
Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Kyle Lowry, 2026 Second-Round Pick (LAL via MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: F Gordon Hayward
Both of these players are on large expiring contracts. Neither is quite worth their price tag. How does this happen? How do NBA players end up being overpaid?
Well, at one point, either one of these guys was worth their money. Look at Lowry. This is one of the best players in Toronto Raptors’ history. When he was offered his current deal, it was understood that it would age poorly. Lowry was worth the money at the time.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat Updates
Hayward’s story is a bit different. Realistically, the Hornets offered him his deal because it’s difficult for them to attract talent as a small market team. Hayward is a good player, but his average annual value has always been high on this deal.
Could the Heat take him on anyway?
Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal
The Heat are getting the best player in this deal. That’s unquestionably true. Lowry is quickly aging out of his effectiveness. That said, it would be fair to question whether Hayward is the best fit for this roster.
We’re not concerned. Sure, moving Lowry leaves the Heat without point guard depth. They could likely find a suitable replacement on the buyout market. They could even upgrade Lowry via that route – and add Hayward in the process.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat Updates
After all, he’s still a solid playmaker and reliable floor spacer. Hayward could be a fantastic sixth man for this team, allowing them to maintain quality playmaking in their frontcourt for 48 minutes every night.
Should the Hornets send them such a useful player?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
Speaking of the buyout market, it’s been rumored that Hayward could find himself there after the deadline. That would mean that the Hornets received nothing for him. In this deal, they’re receiving slightly more.
No, this is not a haul for the Hornets. We understand that. Still, moving him will be difficult if they want the cap relief that comes with Hayward’s deal. Go ahead and canvas the league – it’s hard to find a player in this salary range on an expiring deal.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat Updates
So, taking back another expiring with a second-round pick is worth Charlotte’s time. It’s also worth noting that Kyle Lowry could be a good mentor for LaMelo Ball. Although, he won’t be around for long.
