The trade deadline is looming, and rumor has it that the Charlotte Hornets are going to explore being sellers (subscription required). Per renowned NBA insider Jake Fischer, though, the only player they could shop around is Collin Sexton.
It makes sense if you think about it. Among the pieces the Hornets will likely explore moving, Sexton has the most value. They have made it clear that, despite the buzz surrounding LaMelo Ball, they don’t have any intention of shipping their star anytime soon. Perhaps the same can be said about Miles Bridges, even if some fans want the veteran forward gone.
The other guys that Charlotte must gauge sending elsewhere may not have enough value at the moment. Tre Mann is currently one of the worst rotation players in the league. Mason Plumlee is eligible to be traded now, but the odds of the Hornets waiving him are higher than other teams coveting him. Josh Green would be an intriguing trade candidate, but they probably prefer him on their roster now for his solid 3-and-D play.
Considering all that, Sexton looks like the only asset the Hornets might be willing to deal to another squad that can net them a solid return.
Losing Collin Sexton would be huge
The organization has to think it through, though, before pulling the trigger on any Sexton trade. He is its most potent offensive weapon off the bench, and scoring is already in short supply on many nights.
The combo guard does have plenty of shortcomings. He isn’t really that creative of a playmaker, making the most of his damage by getting buckets. He also turns the ball over often and can be a black hole on defense. Still, he is arguably Charlotte’s most aggressive downhill driver, and his energy on the floor can be infectious.
However, it’s worth noting that the present front office has not shied away from shaking the roster up a bit if it means landing key assets, particularly more draft capital.
Sexton’s trade value is kind of murky. But Fischer also mentioned that the Minnesota Timberwolves have “conducted some diligence” on him. We could infer then that contenders in desperate need of a backcourt upgrade could contact the Hornets to inquire about his availability. And if they can ask for a package centered around a first-round pick or multiple second-rounders, they should definitely keep their options open.
What of the Hornets’ mediocre bench scoring, though, if that scenario indeed takes place? Hopefully, Mann can regain his offensive touch, or Liam McNeeley can develop quickly enough to replace Sexton’s production. Or maybe they will finally heed the call to move Bridges to the second unit and find a more suitable starting power forward.