NBA trade rumor: Hawks could bid farewell to $9.7 million guard for 6-foot-7 Charlotte Hornets star

Atlanta's roster decisions have put Buddy Hield at the center of another trade conversation, with the Charlotte Hornets emerging as a potential destination for the veteran guard. The Hawks have explored ways to move Hield's $9.7 million salary throughout the summer, and league sources now say discussions with Charlotte have included Dorian Finney-Smith.Jake Fischer reported that Atlanta and Charlotte have held talks at different points this month, while one version of the discussions included former lottery pick Devin Carter before Atlanta waived him on Sept. 11. Fischer also stressed that it remains unclear whether the teams will reach an agreement before training camp.CategoryPlayerCurrent TeamBuddy Hield, Atlanta HawksRumored TeamCharlotte HornetsContract Status$9.7M for 2026-27; $9M player option for 2027-28Salary Cap HitHield: $9.7M; Finney-Smith: $14.1MTrade LikelihoodTalks ongoing; agreement remains uncertainLatest Insider UpdateJake Fischer reports on-and-off trade discussionsPotential ReturnDorian Finney-SmithHawks discussing potential Buddy Hield-Dorian Finney-Smith swap with HornetsThe basic appeal for Atlanta is quite straightforward. Buddy Hield gives the Hawks perimeter shooting, but the team has a crowded backcourt and has been looking to move his contract. Finney-Smith, meanwhile, offers a very different profile as a 6-foot-7 forward capable of providing size and defensive versatility.The catch is Finney-Smith's recent production. He appeared in only 37 games for Houston last season after ankle surgery in June 2025. He also shot 27% from three, raising questions about how quickly he can regain his previous form.What Insiders are saying about the trade?Fischer's report provides the clearest picture of where things stand. He wrote: "Atlanta and Charlotte have held trade talks surrounding Buddy Hield for Dorian Finney-Smith, sources say. It remains unclear whether an agreement will be struck before training camp."Another important detail to notice here is the financial structure. Finney-Smith is scheduled to make $14.1 million in 2026-27, compared with Hield's $9.6 million figure cited by Bleacher Report. His $13.3 million salary for 2027-28 is non-guaranteed, giving Atlanta flexibility beyond this season.How the Buddy Hield-Dorian Finney-Smith swap could help each teamFor Atlanta, Finney-Smith would address a positional need created by Mo Gueye's foot injury. The forward is expected to miss three to four months, leaving the Hawks with fewer physical options behind Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu.Charlotte's incentive is different. Hield remains a proven three-point shooter, while the Hornets could potentially receive draft compensation in a broader framework. Sports Illustrated noted that Hield's shooting is the clearest separation between the two players, while Finney-Smith offers more two-way value.For now, the trade remains a discussion rather than a completed transaction. With training camp approaching, Atlanta and Charlotte still have to bridge the financial and roster considerations before anything becomes official.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.