Timberwolves rumors: Hornets would not want to take on Jeff Teague in Kemba Walker trade

One of the players included in a lot of trade chatter the past couple of weeks is Charlotte Hornets point guard Kemba Walker. If the Timberwolves want Walker, though, they might need to offer a different package that does not include Jeff Teague.

One of the players included in a lot of trade chatter the past couple of weeks is Charlotte Hornets point guard Kemba Walker. Being a former All-Star and with his ability to score in different ways, it is very understandable why there are a number of teams intrigued by the prospect of adding him to their fold — just like the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, Minnesota might need to offer a different package that does not include Jeff Teague if they want to secure Walker’s services.

That is apparently the case as the Hornets are not interested in taking on his salary. Instead, Charlotte is asking for a number of pieces for its star guard, according to Darren Wolfson of KSTP.

Charlotte doesn't want to take on Teague's contract. If they move Walker, they are looking for a ton. Doesn't sound like much is churning on the #Twolves trade front. Maybe things change closer to Feb. 8. #AllEyesNorth https://t.co/aKm7LnXlC9

— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) January 28, 2018

Jeff Teague is still under contract until the end of the 2020 season and is slated to earn $38 million in the next two years, per Spotrac. The Hornets understand that they will be tied to him long term. Finding a cheaper point guard while allowing Michael Carter-Williams to have a bigger role also appear to be the top things in mind of the Hornets in looking for a trade partner.

With a number of marquee names scheduled to be free agents this summer and next year, Michael Jordan’s team could be opting to have the cap flexibility to make a run for some of them. Jordan earlier said that the Hornets would only trade Walker if it also meant that Charlotte would be getting an All-Star player in return.

Just like what Wolfson said though, the talks between the two franchises may still advance as the trade deadline gets closer. The Wolves may even find a way to make the Hornets agree to their proposal, and become more creative with the package they want to give them. However, there’s also a possibility that Kemba Walker could also end up with another team especially if the Hornets will like an offer sent to them.