:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64681850/999716186.jpg.0.jpg)
The moratorium on NBA free agency has been lifted, so all of the deals we’ve seen announced are being made official. One of those is the Charlotte Hornets acquisition of Terry Rozier.
The Hornets will acquire the former Boston Celtics point guard in a sign-and-trade. Part of that trade requires an exchange of second round picks that is somewhat convoluted.
The 2nd-round pick going to Boston was one the Hornets are getting from the Nets or Knicks (via Orlando). The Celtics pick that would go to the Hornets is protected, so it's possible the Hornets would never get that pick.
— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) July 7, 2019
In other news, Rozier will wear number 3 for the Hornets.
With the deal becoming official, Hornets General Manager Mitch Kupchak spoke with the media via conference call. There are a couple of tidbits to take away.
First, the direction of the team seems to be somewhat in line with the idea we talked about on here the other day.
“We’re still in a period where we can acquire free agents and make trades. Our plan is to field a team that can be entertaining and sustained moving forward. Our goal is to compete for the playoffs, advance in the playoffs and someday win a championship.” - Mitch Kupchak
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) July 7, 2019
Kupchak said of the team's ability to make other moves: "Yes we will have mid level and our trade exception. ... Once again we are not going to add players just to add players. We have to be careful that if we make an acquisition it won't hinder any of the younger players."
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) July 7, 2019
First, the line about planning to be an entertaining and sustainable team is front office speak for “this team is going to be bad this season.” You don’t set your aspirations around being entertaining when you think your team is going to win. On a similar note, it’s refreshing to see that the front office seems to have the development of the young guys on the top of the priority list.
Kupchak is a big fan of the newest Hornet.
“I’d like to welcome Terry Rozier to the Charlotte Hornets… We’re pleased, we’re excited to have him on board... We feel going forward he’s going to have a big impact with our franchise. He’s going to get better and better. Nobody is going to outwork him.” - Mitch Kupchak
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) July 7, 2019
Kupchak feels that he got a "lottery pick" in Terry Rozier.
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) July 7, 2019
“I love that [Rozier’s] 25 years old. I love that he plays defense. He’s in the gym all the time. He’s a great worker... He’s got the physical tools. I think that’s perfect with our coach and our emphasis on player development.” - Mitch Kupchak
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) July 7, 2019
Based on what he’s saying, Kupchak views Rozier as part of the young corps of players and is very high on his abilities and work ethic.
This part is irrelevant at the moment, but Hornets fans can take solace in this comment if they choose to.
“If we reach a point where it’s clear we can advance in the playoffs, Michael [Jordan] is willing to go into the luxury tax.” - Mitch Kupchak
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) July 7, 2019
Maybe someday...