The Charlotte Hornets' salary-cap decision to trade center Dwight Howard might have been beyond what the numbers dictate but also fixing some potential issues in the locker room. According to former player-turned-analyst Brendan Haywood, the Hornets locker room had just about had it with Howard's antics.
“Guys were just sick and tired of his act,” said Haywood, according to Howard Beck of Sports Illustrated.
This hasn't been the first time teams have complained about Howard, as even the Atlanta Hawks had reportedly developed animosity for him over the course of one season, which seems consistent with the mood in Charlotte.
Howard will suit up for his third team in three seasons, becoming somewhat of an NBA journeyman after being a staple in Orlando during the start of his career.
The Hornets freed themselves of a $23 million commitment for the 2018-19 season and also created a $7.8 million trade exception, along with gaining some future draft selections and cash compensation for their troubles — now able to give their recent trade chip Willy Hernangomez the chance to flourish as the potential starting center.
Charlotte will have to make an additional move this season, having put former Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak at the driver's seat of the front office after the firing of Rich Cho.
Shooting guard Nicolas Batum is likely next in line, still owed $22.4 million for next season without much production to justify such a deal, along with forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who is on the books for $13 million.
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