Around the NBA, there are some long-suffering fanbases. We feel for them. Their team can’t seem to break into the ranks of the league’s competitive squads. Instead, they disappoint their fans on an annual basis.
For a long time, the Sacramento Kings were one of those teams. In fact, they missed the playoffs for an NBA-record 16 seasons in a row. The Kings were the laughingstock of the NBA – but they’re not anymore.
Unfortunately, the Charlotte Hornets are still struggling to find their footing. This team has made the playoffs in recent years, but not consistently – and even when they do, they never escape the first round. This year, they’re one of the worst teams in the NBA.
Could they send Miles Bridges to the Kings?
NBA Trade Proposal: Sacramento Kings Land Charlotte Hornets’ Miles Bridges
Charlotte Hornets Receive: F/C Trey Lyles, 2026 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – SAC)
Sacramento Kings Receive: F Miles Bridges
The Kings took a long road to get here. They didn’t organically build a title contender through the draft. The Kings tried that approach for a long time, and they continuously failed. Eventually, something had to give.
Ultimately, they’d send Tyrese Haliburton to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Domantas Sabonis. It was a bold move. Has it paid off?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings Updates
That’s a matter of debate. Haliburton is one of the best young guards in the NBA – he’s the Pacers’ franchise player. On the other hand, the Kings look like a playoff fixture after adding Sabonis.
Does acquiring Bridges prepare them for a deep playoff run?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do The Deal
By all accounts, the Kings are looking to add frontcourt depth. That makes sense. Keegan Murray has had a stellar sophomore year, but the Kings could stand to upgrade Harrison Barnes.
Bridges would be a substantial upgrade. He’s a far more athletic player. Bridges would complement Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox as a cutter and transition target. This Kings offense is already dynamic – they could be unstoppable by adding Bridges.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings Updates
That’s not to say this is risk-free. Bridges is due for a contract extension this summer – he’s a flight risk. With that said, that’s why he’s available at the cost of a lottery-protected first. Should the Hornets accept that return for the talented forward?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
What else should the Hornets do? Should they pay Bridges this summer? That feels like a mistake. Bridges will likely command a hefty sum in free agency. Why would the Hornets commit to long-term mediocrity?
This isn’t working – so the Hornets should try something else. This pick may be lottery-protected, but the Kings are a relatively young title contender. It’s unlikely that they’ll land in the lottery by 2026.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings Updates
Otherwise, Lyles is an insignificant financial burden. The Hornets will get worse following this deal, but they’re already one of the worst teams in the NBA. In time, acquiring this asset could help them change that.
