The Charlotte Hornets have a bright future entering the NBA offseason, but they may have to clear some cap space to ensure they have a bright present.
After all, Miles Bridges is due to hit Restricted Free Agency soon. LaMelo Ball’s inevitably huge rookie contract extension looms. That’s not to mention the likes of P.J. Washington.
If young players like James Bouknight, J.T Thor, and Kai Jones hit their ceilings, there won’t be much money to go around.
The Hornets probably need to move some veterans this summer. Gordon Hayward feels like a strong candidate for a trade. While the veteran wing is still productive, his $30 million annual salary could be an obstacle to retaining this young core.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Perfect Trade Ideas Involving Hornets’ Gordon Hayward
If the Hornets put him on the open market, they should still find suitors. A desperate win-now contender will find room for him on their books. No contract is immovable in the NBA, especially when it’s attached to a quality player
With that in mind, here are two trade ideas that send Hayward to the New Orleans Pelicans.