Charlotte reunites with the 11-year veteran just days after letting him go
Pat Connaughton scored zero points in a total of 12 minutes during Charlotte Hornets‘ nine-game winning streak, but the franchise values the veteran’s leadership and energetic presence he brings to the locker room. Just five days after they gave him uphottest team in the NBA is re-signing the 33-year-old wing, according to ClutchPoints NBA Insider Brett Siegel.
With Connaughton clearing waivers, he was able to sign a new contract with Charlotte. The Hornets are paying the 2021 champion $9.4 million this season regardless, so they likely want to maximize his value. He will continue to play a limited role, especially after trade acquisition of Coby White makes his team debut but Connaughton seems to be great for morale. He was also effective when he was on the floor.
The former Notre Dame star is averaging 2.9 points in 7.0 minutes per game while shooting 48.9 percent from the field and 40.7 percent from 3-point range. He embraces his role on the team, which is probably easier to do for his salary, and he’s also not afraid to get on his feet. After finishing last in the Hornets fantasy football league, Connaughton dyed his hair blonde as a punishment.
More than a decade into his NBA career, the former second-round draft pick still seems to fit in seamlessly with one of the younger teams in the league. Charlotte uses all the knowledge he has gained over the years.
Pat Connaughton was a key player during the Milwaukee Bucks’ title run, playing reliable defense and shooting nearly 39 percent from downtown in 23 playoff games. Although those days are long gone, he is still a member of this promising era of Hornets basketball.
Fans hope to see him cheer on Charlotte (25-28) during Monday’s matchup with the top-ranked Detroit Pistons (38-13).
2026-02-09 17:04:00
