NBA Rumors: Hornets Have Two Players On Trade Block

There aren't many sellers at this year's trade deadline, but we can be pretty sure that the Charlotte Hornets will be one of them. The latest word from NBA Insider Shams Charania of The Athletic is that the Bugs are definitely looking to move two veterans, in center Mason Plumlee and forward Kelly Oubre Jr.

“The Hornets are discussing center Mason Plumlee and forward Kelly Oubre Jr. in trade conversations.”

(per @ShamsCharania) pic.twitter.com/ByfjxYmnp6

— Hornets Coverage (@hornetscoverage) January 30, 2023

Shams adds that trade conversations are underway.

Oubre, 27, is on an expiring contract ($12.6M), and he's expected to return from hand surgery right around the trade deadline, in plenty of time to help a contender heading for the playoffs. The 7-year veteran was posting career highs this season before the hand injury, in points with 20.2, and steals at 1.6 per game. 

Plumlee is a 10-year veteran, and on a $9.1M expiring contract. He's having a very nice season for the Hornets, averaging career-highs in points (12.2), rebounds (9.7) and assists (3.6), while shooting 67.4% from the floor. He's among the top five centers in dimes.

These won't be the only names that teams will inquire about, nor the only names that the Hornets will pursue dealing. Expect Gordon Hayward and Jalen McDaniels to be heard in plenty of rumors as well.

Charlotte is in tank mode this season—otherwise known as the Victor Wembanyama Derby. They are currently 15-36, solidly positioned in the bottom four of the overall league standings, and set to have a decent chance at winning the draft lottery and getting the No. 1 pick. 

Photo: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports