July 31, 2026, 2:27 p.m. ET
Pat Connaughton was a key contributor to the Charlotte Hornets’ 25-win improvement last season.The Hornets must reduce their roster by two players before the upcoming season begins.Connaughton is the only player on the current roster without a guaranteed contract.Charlotte previously waived and then re-signed Connaughton last season to facilitate a trade.
The Charlotte Hornets made a 25-win improvement last season, going from 19-63 to 44-38. Although he only made 42 appearances, Pat Connaughton was a large part of the Hornets’ success. A previous NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, Connaughton is a respected veteran leader with 11 years of NBA experience.
However, the Notre Dame alum may find it difficult to keep a roster spot for the upcoming season. Currently, Charlotte has 17 players rostered and will need to shed two before the season begins. Not only that, but Connaughton is the only player of the 17 who is not on a guaranteed deal, making him a candidate to be waived, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Whether or not this move would be temporary or permanent remains to be seen. Connaughton was waived by the Hornets last season to complete a trade for Tyus Jones, only to be scooped up again days later.
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