Charlotte Hornets: Pass or pursue on these 3 NBA trade deadline rumors

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 08: LaMelo Ball #2 of the Charlotte Hornets and Gordon Hayward #20 of the Charlotte Hornets react after takeing the lead over the New Orleans Pelicans during a NBA game at Smoothie King Center on January 08, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

Charlotte Hornets, NBA trade deadline (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

Should the Charlotte Hornets cash in their Devonte’ Graham stock?

One of the few Hornets not playing up to the same level that they did a season ago, Devonte’ Graham finds himself in a tenuous position. Last year Graham was one of the finalists for Most Improved Player, averaging 18.2 points, 7.5 assists and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 37.3 percent from distance. This season, he is just a little chillier.

Graham is down to 35.7 percent from distance, resulting in him making 1.5 fewer 3-pointers per game. His numbers are down across the board, averaging 13.6 points, 5.6 assists and 2.9 rebounds per game. Some of this is dealing with injuries but he has also been noticeably streakier this season. Further confusing the matter, Graham will be a free agent this summer.

If there are calls coming in for Graham the Hornets should listen. With Malik Monk figuring things out, Ball’s exemplary rookie campaign and Terry Rozier continuing his play from last year the third-year guard has become expendable. Graham is already 26, meaning even as he is still newer to the league his game may be plateauing into what he will be. With depth in the backcourt and two two-way guards to take a look at Graham’s days may be numbered.

Pursue

Home/Charlotte Hornets