Report: Potential Sign-And-Trade Deal For Hornets
NBA insider Marc Stein reports that the Cleveland Cavaliers are emerging as a notable contender in a potential sign-and-trade deal for Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges, who is currently an unrestricted free agent.
Stein wrote, “While it’s uncertain how serious Cleveland’s interest is, league sources have identified the team as one to watch for a potential sign-and-trade involving Miles Bridges. Charlotte’s new executive vice president of basketball operations, Jeff Peterson, has publicly stated that the Hornets intend to retain Bridges. However, Bridges is exploring sign-and-trade opportunities. Additionally, Charlotte has agreed to trade for Dallas swingman Josh Green in a three-team deal that will send Golden State’s Klay Thompson to Dallas. The LA Clippers have also reportedly shown interest in a sign-and-trade for Bridges, according to the Los Angeles Times.”
In the 2023-24 season, Bridges played 69 games for the Hornets, averaging 21.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.5 blocks, with shooting splits of 46.2% from the field, 34.9% from three-point range, and 82.5% from the free-throw line. Drafted 12th overall by the Hornets in the 2018 NBA Draft out of Michigan State, the 26-year-old has career averages of 14.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks.
The Cavaliers, who were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2024 playoffs, recently fired head coach JB Bickerstaff and hired Kenny Atkinson on a five-year contract. Additionally, All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell agreed to a three-year, $150.3 million maximum contract extension, dispelling rumors of his dissatisfaction in Cleveland. A source told Hoops Wire that Mitchell was frustrated by speculation about his departure. Since joining the Cavaliers from the Utah Jazz in 2022, Mitchell has averaged 27.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.5 blocks. Cleveland is also expected to sign Evan Mobley to a rookie-scale extension soon.