The Charlotte Hornets could be buyers this trade season, but the route they are most likely to take is adding more draft capital. In that case, it makes sense for them to become involved in possible blockbuster deals. The Hornets could have an opportunity to do so after they were mentioned as one of the teams (subscription required) that the New York Knicks have reached out to regarding Karl-Anthony Towns.
It appears the Knicks have explored moving Towns, which would signal a major shift in their strategy in building a contending squad. According to Steve Popper of Newsday, the five-time All-Star's name surfaced when the team discussed the chance of a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade.
Popper then also reported, "But now, league sources said that talks have involved other teams, including Memphis, Orlando, and Charlotte."
KAT in CLT?
What isn't clear in the piece is whether the purported trade discussion involving the Hornets has centered around Towns making his way to the Hive.
That would certainly be an interesting proposition. He could easily slot into the starting power forward position, a massive hole they have long needed to address. His skill set also seems like a great fit with Charles Lee's 3-point-heavy schemes.
In fact, Towns could turn out to be a happier camper on the Hornets, as there have been rumors of his discontent with the way first-year Knicks head coach Mike Brown has used him on the floor. With Charlotte, he could have the green light from long range that he has not been afforded since his Minnesota Timberwolves days. It would also be intriguing to watch if his presence could elevate the games of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel.
The problem with acquiring a star of his caliber is that it would require the Hornets to give up more assets than they would probably be willing to surrender. Would coughing up multiple first-round picks be worth absorbing a 30-year-old star owed $57 million next season and who has a $61 million player option for the 2027-28 campaign?
Facilitating a megadeal is more like it
Chances are, the reason New York got in touch with the Hornets is to gauge their interest in joining as a facilitator in a larger deal. The organizations do share a history of helping each other in that area. It was even quite fresh, as Charlotte helped the Knicks pick up Towns from Minnesota in the 2024 offseason.
I could be wrong, though. It's also plausible that New York wants a player or two from the Hornets, in addition to seeking draft compensation, in exchange for KAT. But if the Knicks' ask includes Ball, Miller, and Knueppel (and probably even Moussa Diabate), Jeff Peterson should just hang up.
However, if he can reinforce the Hornets' already-deep treasure trove of draft assets by joining a megadeal for Towns or other big stars, he should spend more time on the phone until the trade deadline. With their rebuild looking like it's coming to an end, they should continue to seek pathways to expand their collection of draft picks.