Less than a week before the 2026-27 NBA season, the Charlotte Hornets are still working through a roster crunch. Currently, the Hornets have 16 players under contract, one more than the allowed amount of 15. While the simple path would be cutting one of their current players, the Hornets are reportedly seeking a different avenue.
According to The Stein Line, Charlotte is among three teams trying to attach second-round draft capital in trades to make room on their roster. The Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks have also been pursuing such moves to create roster space, with New York hoping to retain former NBA champion Bruce Brown.
If Charlotte is unable to find a trade partner, the final roster spot will likely be settled between former No.
6 overall pick Tidjane Salaun and veteran swingman Pat Connaughton. Still 21 years old, Salaun offers Charlotte potential, although his development hasn't matched the rate the Hornets were intending after selecting him in the 2024 NBA Draft. As for Connaughton, cutting him would be the most cost-effective, considering he is the only player rostered on a non-guaranteed deal. That said, the 2021 NBA champion has been a great locker room presence for the franchise since joining and is well-liked by his teammates.
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This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Report: Hornets among teams exploring trades to create roster space
