Hornets acquire Gordon Hayward, 2 draft picks from Celtics

Charlotte Hornets have acquired forward Gordon Hayward and unprotected 2023 and 2024 second-round draft picks from Boston Celtics in exchange for a heavily protected 2022 second-round draft pick as part of a sign-and-trade transaction.

Celtics will only get Charlotte’s draft pick if Hornets finish in top five in league next season, so it’s unlikely y will get anything in deal or than unloading Hayward’s contract.

Hayward previously agreed to a four-year, $120 million deal to join Hornets.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gordon and his family to Hornets organization and Charlotte,” Hornets general manr Mitch Kupchak said. “Gordon is an NBA All-Star, a proven scorer and playmaker and a tough competitor that will fit well into needs of our team. We believe that his basketball talent, NBA experience and veteran leadership will make a positive impact on our young, talented team as it continues to develop.”

Hornets also waived guard Nicolas Batum and forward Ray Spalding.

Hayward, a 10-year NBA veteran, has appeared in 641 regular-season games with 479 starts with Jazz and Celtics, averaging 15.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 30.8 minutes per game. 6-foot-7 forward has appeared in 29 postseason games with 16 starts, averaging 15 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 33 minutes per game.

Im credits :AP