The Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors are desperately looking for another star player to save their season. Both teams have struggled to stay afloat all season and are hovering around the play-in spots of the Western Conference standings. With the February 8 trade deadline only one day away, the two historic franchises might have found the perfect star to turn their season around.
Amid the trade buzz, the Charlotte Hornets Forward Gordon Hayward has reportedly entered the trade market. Hayward is in the final year of his 4-year $120 million contract, and the Hornets have made him available for a trade. He has been out of action since December 26th due to a calf injury and is expected to return soon. Hayward’s status was questionable for tonight’s game against the Toronto Raptors, but the Hornets decided to sit him out.
Spoke with Gordon Hayward, who said: "I love Charlotte, my family loves it here."
But he also knows the NBA is a business and there's a chance the #Hornets could be broken up.
"Yeah, I think that’s something for the powers that be to decide."
My latest: https://t.co/ecp0DQriEG
— Rod Boone (@rodboone) February 8, 2024
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With Hayward finally recovering from his injury, the Lakers and the Warriors could pursue the former All-Star to get more depth in their lineup. Hayward is a solid two-way player and has had a decent season for the Hornets. He has averaged 14.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in the 25 games he has played this season. The addition of Hayward could improve any team’s three-point shooting and overall offense. He is shooting 36.1 percent from deep this season and has been a decent three-point shooter throughout his career. Hayward also poses a defensive threat to his opponents when on the floor. He is averaging 1.1 steals and 0.5 blocks this season. With Hayward becoming an unrestricted free agent after the end of this season, either the Warriors or the Lakers could see how he fits in their roster.
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Gordon Hayward knows he can get traded by the Hornets
While Gordon Hayward’s availability has opened new doors for several struggling teams, the Hornets forward is not too bothered by the trade rumors. He addressed his trade talks and claimed he was familiar with the NBA business and knew the Hornets could trade him anytime. “Yeah, I think that’s something for the powers that be to decide.” Hayward said in an interview. He also expressed his love for the city of Charlotte despite the rumors.
Hayward is 33 years old and might be nearing the end of his NBA career. Even though he is not an All-Star caliber player anymore, he could still prove to be a solid role player on a Championship-contending team.
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Do you want to see Hayward play alongside LeBron and AD in LA or see him team up with Stephen Curry in Golden State?
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