Charlotte Hornets: 3 trades for the 2021-22 season
Okay, this trade may seem a bit boring, but the Hornets are getting two pieces, capitalizing off of Oubre’s value early.
In Derrick Favors, they are adding a big man that can play alongside LaMelo Ball, adding to the rotation that consists only of PJ Washington and Mason Plumlee. Favors has averaged seven points, seven rebounds, and one block over the course of the past two seasons, starting for the Pelicans and coming off of the bench for the first-seeded Utah Jazz. With an expanded role, he could flourish alongside a playmaker such as Ball.
Kenrich Williams is one of the most underrated role players in the NBA, as well. At 26 years old (and with two years left on his contract), Williams averaged eight points, four rebounds, and two assists last season on shooting splits of 53/44/57. While he’s not a great free-throw shooter, he’s a great low-volume player to have at either forward spot. In addition to his offensive game, Williams is a solid defender.
Losing Oubre would be unfortunate, but the Hornets could turn one role player into two – something that they really need. This would also open up some secondary wing minutes for players such as James Bouknight, Cody Martin, and Jalen McDaniels.