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Hawks, Hornets Eye Trade Before Training Camp
21 Sep
Summary
- Hawks and Hornets are discussing a trade involving Buddy Hield and Dorian Finney-Smith.
- The trade could help the Hawks manage their roster size and luxury tax.
- Finney-Smith's contract is non-guaranteed after the 2027-28 season.
The Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets are reportedly engaged in trade discussions ahead of their upcoming training camps. Sources indicate the teams are exploring a deal that would involve Hawks guard Buddy Hield and Hornets forward Dorian Finney-Smith.
This potential transaction comes as the Hawks aim to resolve roster depth issues, having exceeded the regular-season limit of 15 players. Moving Hield's $9.6 million salary could provide Atlanta with a much-needed wing defender in Finney-Smith. Despite Finney-Smith's ankle surgery in June 2025 and playing only 37 games last season, his $13.3 million salary for 2027-28 is non-guaranteed.
Such a trade could push the Hawks over the luxury tax threshold, a line they have historically avoided crossing. To comply, Atlanta might waive a player like Mouhamed Gueye. Finney-Smith, if acquired, could offer veteran support at power forward, potentially easing the transition for younger players like Asa Newell and Zuby Ejiofor.
