Swarm and Sting
Fansided

Charlotte Hornets in the mix for Andre Drummond

By Shawn Simmons

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 31: Andre Drummond #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks to pass the ball as Ed Davis #17 of the Minnesota Timberwolves guards him during the third quarter at Target Center on January 31, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harrison Barden/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 31: Andre Drummond #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks to pass the ball as Ed Davis #17 of the Minnesota Timberwolves guards him during the third quarter at Target Center on January 31, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harrison Barden/Getty Images) /
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The Charlotte Hornets went down to the wire before they facilitated a trade prior to the NBA trade deadline on March 25. Hornets fans waited to hear the news that Charlotte made a trade to upgrade a big need at the center position, but instead, the news they heard was a trade for a backup point guard.

In wake of the injury to LaMelo Ball, the Hornets added depth to their backcourt by acquiring Brad Wanamaker from the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Charlotte’s 2025 second-round pick. Because of the top-55 protection placed on the pick, it’s unlikely the Warriors will ever receive the pick.

Despite missing Ball, likely, for the remainder of the season and the need to upgrade at the center position, the Hornets currently sit at fourth place in the Eastern Conference at 21-20 entering Friday’s game at home against the Miami Heat. The Hornets are on track to compete in the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-2016 season.

The Hornets now turn their attention to upgrading the center position in the buyout market.

Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports is reporting that the Hornets are among five teams that are expected to have an opportunity to speak to center Andre Drummond after he and the Cleveland Cavaliers agree to a buyout of his contract.

The Hornets face stiff competition in acquiring the services of Drummond. The Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers will also speak to Drummond. The Lakers are believed to be the frontrunners for Drummond.

Drummond was targeted by several teams prior to the trade deadline but the Cavaliers were unable to find a deal because of Drummond’s $28.7 million salary this season.

If acquired by the Hornets, Drummond would immediately solve problems the Hornets have had at the position since the departure of Al Jefferson after the 2016 playoffs. Drummond will provide inside scoring, rim protection, and rebounding on both ends of the floor. His presence in the interior on defense will help the Hornets improve in defending perimeter shooting.

Drummond hasn’t played since February 12; the Cavaliers made the decision to sit him while they tried to find a trade partner before the trade deadline. In 25 games this season, Drummond averaged 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game.

Next. Charlotte Hornets likely to target Daniel Theis in offseason. dark

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