As we approach the trade deadline, there has been growing interest from teams across the league in Miles Bridges. Charlotte wants at least one to two first-round picks in return, but I think the value is closer to one. Front offices see a plug-and-play forward who can elevate their team immediately in a myriad of ways. This type of demand may push the Hornets into a tough spot. As the market heats up, it's hard to justify Charlotte staying put with Bridges.
Yes, he's been a good player for the franchise over the years, even cementing himself as No. 3 on the Hornets’ all‑time scoring list behind Dell Curry and Kemba Walker. Even so, Bridges’ subpar three‑point shooting and inconsistent shot selection can be difficult to build around long‑term, especially for a team trying to lean into a fast‑tempo, elite three-point shooting identity.
The trade package between Milwaukee and Charlotte below offers a path forward for both sides, giving the Bucks a versatile scorer while providing the Hornets with a much cleaner fit around their young core.
Hornets trade Bridges and Sexton to Bucks
Let's start with the Hornets. Bobby Portis would be a huge upgrade in the shooting department. He's currently shooting 46.7 percent from beyond the arc on over four attempts this season. Adding that kind of efficiency to this Hornets offense would make them even more dangerous. I think he's a capable defender as he brings intensity. Portis may be undersized to truly be a center, but he is a stretch four that fits the team's offensive identity better.
The reality is that the Bucks would need to give up Kyle Kuzma to make this trade work (from a financial standpoint). Kuzma may provide some value off the bench, but he's not a good three-point shooter. Kuzma’s deal is structured to decline annually, trimming his cap hit each season. That makes him a useful expiring contract next year, and potentially a real value play if he stabilizes his production and finds his rhythm.
Along with that hefty contract, the Hornets would receive a first-round pick for their troubles. Ryan Rollins is also a part of this deal. He's currently mired in a shooting slump in January, but make no mistake, he was rolling in the early part of the season. Rollins is only 23 years old and has been an efficient two-way player. The Hornets would welcome a secondary ball handler for this offense.
As for the Bucks, they would receive Bridges, Sexton, and a 2026 second-round pick. On paper, Milwaukee wins the trade from a talent standpoint. The Hornets get better with Portis being a better fit for the offense and a backup guard in Rollins who's still improving. They also come out ahead from a value perspective, boosting their 2026 first‑round capital to three picks. And if those rookies can contribute right away, especially given how well this front office has drafted recently, you’re getting meaningful production at a fraction of what a comparable veteran would cost.
On some nights, the Hornets look like a fully formed team, locking in on both ends and steamrolling opponents in blowout wins. On other nights they leave the fanbase baffled, like when LaMelo Ball, the franchise cornerstone on a $200 million contract, is suddenly coming off the bench in multiple games.
That inconsistency is the story of the season, and yet, the Hornets are still a few games out from a play-in berth. If Charlotte can make a few roster tweaks at the deadline to complement this LaMelo-led offense and shake out the above headscratchers, they could finish the regular season on a high note. It'd be sad to see Bridges go, but moving him could open the door for better things to come.