Charlotte Hornets Explore Trade Options for Miles Bridges Ahead of Deadline

The Charlotte Hornets are actively seeking to trade forward Miles Bridges, who is currently in the second season of a three-year, $75 million contract. As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5, 2026, the Hornets are reportedly looking to offload Bridges, who has been averaging 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game this season. His performance, however, has been overshadowed by a troubled off-court history, which has made him a controversial figure in the league.

Newsweek

Bridges, a 27-year-old player from Michigan State, is earning $25 million this season and is set to make $22.8 million in the final year of his contract. Despite his scoring ability, he has not been part of a playoff team and has struggled with consistency, particularly in three-point shooting and defense. The Hornets' current season has been disappointing, with a record of 7-16, exacerbated by the inconsistent availability of key players like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

Newsweek

The Hornets appear to be shifting their focus towards younger talent, particularly with the emergence of rookie forward Kon Knueppel. Knueppel, who played at Duke, is averaging 18.2 points per game with impressive shooting splits of .462/.414/.906. This development suggests that the Hornets are prioritizing players who can contribute to the team's future success while being cost-controlled under rookie contracts.

Newsweek

In addition to Knueppel, the Hornets have also drafted shooting guard Sion James and center Ryan Kalkbrenner, further indicating a strategic pivot towards building a younger roster. This shift may explain the Hornets' desire to move on from Bridges, as they look to create a more sustainable and competitive team.

Newsweek

From a basketball perspective, Bridges could attract interest from teams in need of a scoring forward. The Hornets are reportedly hoping to secure a first-round pick in exchange for his services. However, the success of this trade will depend on the interest from other teams and the perceived value of Bridges given his off-court issues.

Newsweek

Critics of the Hornets' decision to trade Bridges may argue that his scoring ability and experience could still be valuable assets for the team, especially if they aim to improve their current standings. Additionally, some may question whether the team is moving too quickly to part ways with a player who, despite his controversies, has shown flashes of potential on the court.

Newsweek

While there have been no official statements from the Hornets regarding the trade discussions, the team's actions suggest a clear intent to reshape their roster. The focus on younger players indicates a long-term strategy that may not align with retaining a player like Bridges.

Newsweek

• “Bridges, in theory, could hold appeal — strictly from a basketball sense — for a team seeking a big scoring forward.” — Source

Newsweek

• “The Hornets no doubt will hope to extract a first-round pick for his services.” — Source

Newsweek

As the trade deadline approaches, the Hornets' ability to navigate this situation will be crucial for their future direction.

Newsweek