Terry Rozier‘s trade gave Charlotte a gentle launch into their rebuild, and this week could see a full-fledged hard launch.
As the trade deadline of February 8th draws near, speculation regarding the Hornets’ potential next move is rampant. PJ Washington might be the next to go, according to veteran NBA analyst Marc Stein.
If Dallas were to pursue PJ Washington, the #Hornets would push for Josh Green.
The Clippers have also registered interest in Washington.
ℹ️ via @TheSteinLine pic.twitter.com/fWlABI9944
— Richie (@richierandall) February 4, 2024
Since the 2019 NBA Draft, the former Kentucky Wildcat has been a member of the Hornets. After declaring for free agency last summer, Washington returned to the Hornets on a three-year, $46.5 million contract after receiving little attention from other teams in the NBA. Dallas was one of the few clubs that reportedly showed interest in Washington during free agency, and it appears that interest has renewed.
Josh Green, 23, would be pushed for inclusion in the trade, according to Stein. Dallas would have to sign Grant Williams or Richaun Holmes in order to match Washington’s $16.8 million salary because his $4.7 million yearly contract isn’t enough. In that case, I think Charlotte would combine Nick Richards with Washington and ask Dallas for future selections since Richards would give Dallas’ front court more youth and depth.
Los Angeles could send Norman Powell, rookie forward Kobe Brown, and several future second-round picks to Charlotte if they were to acquire Nick Richards. The Stepien rule prevents the Clippers from sending a future first-round selection.