Charlotte Hornets trade for veteran guard Brad Wanamaker

With the NBA trade deadline passing, fans can now expect a new player to suit up for the Charlotte Hornets this season. On Thursday, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the Hornets traded with the Warriors to acquire Brad Wanamaker.

The deal between the Warriors and Hornets for Wanamaker is structured in a way that neither Charlotte nor Golden State will lose a draft pick. The Hornets had an open roster spot and cap space available to absorb Wanamaker’s contract, which expires at the end of the season.

Wanamaker, who turns 32 in July, has averaged 5.6 points and 2.3 assists per game over the past three seasons. This year, he’s averaging 4.7 points and 2.5 assists in 39 games.

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The veteran point guard played a majority of his career in the G-League, winning one G-League championship while also winning the Turkish Basketball Championship and finals MVP for the Turkish League in 2018.

Wanamaker made his NBA debut with the Boston Celtics in 2018, where he played with the team for two seasons. He also played in 21 playoff games over the past two years. Acquiring Wanamaker gives Charlotte more playoff experience on their roster.

Wanamaker will join the Hornets backcourt that will likely be without LaMelo Ball for the rest of the season. Wanamaker could fill the void at backup point with Devonte’ Graham being reinserted into the starting lineup.

The trade for Wanamaker marks the team’s first trade since they acquired Willy Hernangomez from the New York Knicks in 2018. The Hornets were involved in multiple trade talks on Thursday but pulled one off at the last minute.

It’s unclear if the Hornets will sign any free agents after buyouts are completed. The Hornets are set to play the Miami Heat on Friday at home. Charlotte remains fourth in the Eastern Conference standings.