The Charlotte Hornets signed Gordon Hayward to a four-year deal last NBA offseason. This was worth $120 million and is a big hit to a team looking to take the next step. They could benefit from unloading Hayward’s contract, and the Orlando Magic could be a trade partner.
This deal could line up because it is between two teams looking to retool with contracts. The Hornets are building around LaMelo Ball for the future. He is looking like a future star and could be the player to help Charlotte turn things around.
The Hornets were able to make a run to the play-in portion of the postseason but nothing further. Charlotte sent Devonte’ Graham to the New Orleans Pelicans and signed Terry Rozier to a lucrative extension. It is clear what their plan is moving forward, and they can continue to put it into action here.
As for the Magic, it is a bit less clear what their plan is. Orlando decided to sell big time at the NBA trade deadline by sending away their stars. Nikola Vucevic, Aaron Gordon, and Evan Fournier were all key cogs but were sent away.
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Now, the Magic will have to rely on a young backcourt that includes Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs, drafted with the fifth-overall pick in this year’s draft. If Orlando feels they can take a big swing to start winning again with Jonathan Isaac returning from injury, Hayward could be an intriguing option.
Both the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic have a chance to benefit from an NBA trade scenario such as this one. Let’s take a closer look and see how it might happen for both sides in the offseason.
