5 Players that could replace Gordon Hayward on the Hornets
By Adam Taylor
#3 The Hornets replace Gordon Hayward with Evan Fournier
Evan Fournier’s time with the New York Knicks is widely expected to end before the new season begins. Isaiah Hartenstein’s first season in the Big Apple had its good and bad moments. However, both players would slide into significant roles with the Charlotte Hornets.
Tom Thibodeau values versatile wing players, especially if they can play solid defense and create for their teammates. As such, the Knicks could view Hayward as a potential upgrade at the wing position without having to provide a long-term commitment. After all, Leon Rose and William Wesley have been all about retaining cap flexibility in case a star player becomes available via trade.
Fournier would provide the Hornets with legitimate movement shooting and an offensive outlet off the dribble. The veteran wings last two stops, with the Boston Celtics and Knicks, haven’t gone to plan, yet if Steve Clifford can help Fournier rediscover the production he showed while with the Orlando Magic, he could help elevate the Hornets rotation for the upcoming season.
Hartenstein would also provide a legitimate upgrade at the center position, especially with his passing and screening ability.