Two NBA Draft Night Trade Partners Emerge for Hornets in Latest Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the Charlotte Hornets make a plan with the fourth overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft, trade rumors are swirling. There are many questions to be answered, including the future of LaMelo Ball in the Queen’s City.
Outside of the No. 4 pick, the Hornets own consecutive picks (33rd and 34th overall) in the second round. Many are speculating if they’ll keep both or trade back into the first round in a two-for-one swap. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes believes Charlotte would be an interesting trade partner for at least two teams on draft night.
“The Boston Celtics will be looking to shave as much cash as possible off their books as they try to duck the second apron and limit their brutal repeater tax penalties,” Hughes wrote. “If they send Charlotte the No. 28 selection for that pair of second-rounders, it’d enable them to sign those later picks to cheaper, partially guaranteed or two-way deals.”
Boston is one year removed from a championship run and will look at all options. But one Western Conference team could jump up on Day 2.
Related: Former Charlotte Hornets star Alonzo Mourning says routine check-ups saved his life—twice
“Given their depth issues, the Phoenix Suns might also view a pair of early seconds as more valuable than a single late first (No. 29),” Hughes added. “Even if Charlotte doesn’t flip its picks, it’s still a great trade candidate. …Keep an eye on these Hornets. They’re going to get up to something.”
The 2025 NBA Draft starts Wednesday, June 25 (8 p.m., ESPN).
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.