After finishing 43-39 in a very promising 2021-22 season, The Charlotte Hornets have taken a nosedive in the standings. Essentially the entirety of the 2022-23 season, The Hornets have been at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
As reported by Shams Charania, The Hornets are willing to listen to trade offers for Terry Rozier. This indicates the willingness to listen to trades for other veteran players. With time running out for management to build a team around LaMelo Ball, trades are looking like a necessity this season. With a willingness to commit to a full rebuild and the trade deadline right around the corner, what are some trades that can improve the future of The Charlotte Hornets?
Trade 1: Kelly Oubre Jr. to Cleveland
Charlotte receives Isaac Okoro, Dylan Windler, 2024 first-round pick (lottery protected).
Cleveland receives Kelly Oubre Jr., 2024 second-round pick.
Kelly Oubre Jr. had a fantastic season before his hand injury sidelined him. His scoring ability was fully displayed this season, as he scored 20 or more points in nine straight games. His twenty points per contest and five boards could provide much-needed scoring from the Small Forward position for Cleveland. A reduced role on the offensive end could further improve his defensive ability. His lengthy, 6’7″ frame makes him a matchup nightmare.
Isaac Okoro has had an iffy third season in Cleveland. With career lows in minutes, shot attempts, points, rebounds, assists, and steals, his trade value has seen a dip. That being said, Okoro has shown many promising signs in both his rookie and sophomore seasons.
The biggest improvement came with his three-point shot, shooting about 35% from deep in his sophomore season (up from about 29% his rookie season). Okoro would also provide some much-needed wing defense alongside Lamelo. He could be turned into a point-of-attack defender that could stop transition buckets. Okoro could also see an offensive resurgence alongside Lamelo. Okoro is someone that management should look to buy low on.