The Hornets are ready to discuss the 2023 1st round pick in trade talks
The Charlotte Hornets are supposedly willing to discuss the availability of Nick Smith Jr., their 27th overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, according to The Stein Line. Rival teams revealed Charlotte is open to including Smith Jr. in trade discussions as the franchise navigates a challenging 9-28 season. despite a 117-112 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.
The Hornets’ willingness to engage in negotiations regarding Smith Jr. it followed the recent trade with Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, to which Charlotte sent center Nick Richards to Phoenix in exchange for guard Josh Okogie and three second-round draft picks. The move reflects a broader strategy to accumulate draft capital while adjusting the roster, especially as the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaches.
The Hornets are exploring the trade market as Nick Smith Jr.’s role diminishes
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Drafted late in the first round in 2023, Smith Jr. saw his role diminish significantly during his second season. After averaging 14.3 minutes per game as a rookie, his playing time has dropped to 10.8 minutes per game this season. In 19 games, he is averaging 4.3 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists while shooting 36% from the field and 36.7% from three-point range.
Marc Stein also noted that the Hornets are considering additional moves involving veterans such as Josh Green, Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic to further bolster their stockpile of draft assets. From last January’s trade that sent Terry Rozier to the Miami Heat in exchange for Kyle LowryCharlotte collected a total of 10 draft picks, including two future first-rounders and eight second-rounders.
With their season headed for another lottery finish, it looks like the Hornets are intent on continuing to overhaul their roster through the trade market. Rival teams reveal Charlotte’s openness to trade Smith Jr. suggest the franchise is prioritizing its long-term goals over immediate success, and the trade deadline offers a key opportunity to bolster their rebuild.
2025-01-16 21:02:00
