The Charlotte Hornets were just a win away from finally ending their nine-year drought in the playoffs. Despite falling short, there were plenty of positives to take away from their memorable campaign, which was one of the biggest surprises of the season.
Now, the Hornets will find ways to improve the roster and address their weak spots. Adding another two-way threat would be ideal for the Hornets. Acquiring a veteran presence is another option, especially since their inexperience was exposed in the Play-In Tournament.
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis checks those boxes. Although he was hampered by a knee injury this season, he remains one of the more dependable players in the NBA.
According to a report from The Athletic's Sam Amick, the Hornets and the Kings have had “recent talks” about Sabonis. The two teams, however, seem to be stuck in a quandary.
“While a deal is not imminent and appears unlikely before the June 23 draft, sources say the Hornets have some interest in the 30-year-old, three-time All-Star,” wrote Amick.
“The problem for now, it seems, is that the Kings have been hoping to land one of Charlotte’s two first-round picks (they have Nos. 14 and 18) in the deal, and the Hornets have signaled a desire to retain their picks and discuss Sabonis later in the summer. Sabonis has two seasons left on his deal ($45.4 million next season and $48.6 million in 2027-28).”
Sabonis only played 19 games this season, averaging 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists—all his lowest since his third year in the league.
If the Hornets do land Sabonis, he will likely compete against Moussa Diabate for the starting spot. There is also the possibility, although unlikely, that Charlotte will include Diabate in a trade package for Sabonis.
Sabonis has been mentioned in trade rumors over the last two seasons. He has become more expendable for the Kings due to the high upside of Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell.
