The Charlotte Hornets just pulled off a blockbuster that sent LaMelo Ball to Minnesota, and now it sounds like they’re aiming even higher. According to Charlotte TV personality Mike Lacett, the Hornets have shifted their focus to landing Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown.
This comes after the Celtics reportedly made Brown available in trade talks when their own pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo fell apart. Brown, a five-time All-Star, hasn’t requested a trade from Boston. But the Celtics are apparently listening to offers for the first time since drafting him third overall in 2016.
Multiple teams have kicked the tires on Brown. The Hornets though have a specific need after moving Ball. They need a primary scoring option and a star to build around. Brown fits that description as a versatile two-way wing who averaged 23 points per game last season.
What Would a Deal Look Like
From Charlotte’s side of things, the price tag matters. Boston is reportedly asking for a significant haul. We’re talking multiple first-round picks plus a young player or two. The Hornets have some assets after the Ball trade but would need to get creative with matching salaries.
Brown is owed roughly $57 million over the next two seasons. Charlotte would likely have to send out a combination of players like Gordon Hayward’s expiring contract, maybe PJ Washington, and draft capital. The Celtics have leverage here. They don’t have to trade Brown unless the offer blows them away.
It’s worth noting that Brown has never played for another NBA team. He entered the league in Boston and has spent his entire career there. That loyalty cuts both ways. He hasn’t forced a move but the front office might be tempted to restock the cupboard if the right deal emerges.
Hornets Building After a Winning Season
Charlotte is coming off its first winning season in five years. They went 43-39 before losing to Orlando in the play-in tournament. That’s progress for a franchise that has struggled to stay relevant in the Eastern Conference.
The Ball trade brought back Naz Reid to play center and Coby White to take over at point guard. White signed a new deal to stay in Charlotte. Reid gives them a rim-running big they’ve lacked for years. But the roster still feels incomplete without a true star.
Brown would change that calculus immediately. Pair him with Brandon Miller, the rookie who showed flashes last season, and the Hornets could fast-track their rebuild into something serious. The East is wide open after Miami and Milwaukee. Charlotte sees a window.
Whether the Celtics actually move Brown before the season starts remains unclear. But the conversations are happening. And Charlotte appears to be one of the teams pushing hardest.
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