5. Gordon Hayward
Like with the Spurs’ duo, the Los Angeles Lakers could end up doing a two-for-one with the Hornets where they get Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward in return. While Hayward is known for his ability to slash to the basket, he certainly is no slouch shooting the basketball.
The former all-star has shot 40.1% on 4.6 attempts per game since he joined the Hornets. Not only would he add a shooting presence to the team, but he would be a much better version of McDermott as he would also add size and give the Lakers a true small forward to start.
The biggest concern with Hayward, outside of his contract, is his injury history. The Lakers are already on thin ice with their health with LeBron and AD and Hayward would just add another risky injury-prone player to the mix.
Hayward’s contract is not as long as Rozier’s but the salary hit is larger. Hayward has a $30.75 million cap hit this season and a $31.5 million cap hit next season. Los Angeles probably doesn’t want to take that risk, but don’t be surprised if they do. It is hard to think that Pelinka won’t make a lesser trade if it only takes one pick.
It is still hard to believe that the Lakers would take both Rozier and Hayward in the same trade because of financial reasons. If Charlotte got desperate enough to shed money and was willing to do the trade without a pick involved then maybe it is a possibility for a stingy Lakers’ front office.
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However, it is more likely that the Lakers would trade for one or the other. Hayward can be packaged with Kelly Oubre Jr; Rozier can be packaged with Oubre and Mason Plumlee. Both are on expiring contracts.