The Charlotte Hornets shocked the NBA world when they reportedly traded LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, a day after the draft. And now, Miles Bridges has also reportedly come up on the trade market. The Hornets almost made the playoffs but fell short against the Orlando Magic in the play-in tournament last season. The team management seems to be looking to acquire assets to rebuild the roster.
Given the franchise’s decision to trade its core roster picks after the draft, the franchise appears to be looking to build around Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. The two performed well in the postseason and have made crucial plays in clutch situations. Moreover, Bridges is on a $22.8 million expiring contract.
NBA insider Evan Sidery reported on X on Thursday:
“The Hornets are also shopping Miles Bridges in trade talks as they look to further retool their roster around Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller.
Bridges is on a $22.8 million expiring contract.”
Knueppel was one of the league’s best rookie’s last season, and Miller was the No. 2 pick in the 2023 draft. All they might be looking for is a veteran addition to mentor the youngsters.
On the other hand, Ball averaged 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.1 assists, but his production significantly increased in the two play-in games, when he averaged 26.5 ppg last season. Injuries, however, have hampered Ball. He’s played 51 games or less in four of his six seasons.
Hornets seemingly look to change their core
The Hornets are seemingly looking to change the core after their failure to make the playoffs since 2016. Given that the franchise has decided to trade Ball and is looking for options for Bridges, they will rebuild their roster around Miller and Knueppel.
Bridges has received a lot of attention from teams like the Golden State Warriors and the Milwaukee Bucks. While the Warriors are looking to strengthen their wing depth, the Bucks are in a rebuild phase after trading their franchise face, Giannis Antetokuonmpo, earlier this week.
Bridges averaged 17.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 3.2 apg in the 2025-26 season, shooting 33.3% from deep. Keeping aside his injury woes that have progressively decreased in the last few seasons, Ball has been an all-around player and shown his worth in crucial situations. The front office will look to acquire some youngsters once again in the draft and bet on the upcoming generation.
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