Story perspectives

Hornets Add Finney-Smith, Reach 20 Picks, Eye Connaughton Cut

7/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Charlotte Hornets acquired forward Dorian Finney-Smith and three future second-round picks—including a 2027 pick from Memphis and 2028 and 2033 picks from Houston—raising their stockpile to 20 second-round selections through 2033.
Finney-Smith’s three-year, $39 million contract is non-guaranteed for the final two years, with Charlotte owing $13.3 million in 2026-27.
The Hornets must cut two players, and Pat Connaughton is the most likely because his salary becomes fully guaranteed on 1/31/2027.

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Story summary

The Charlotte Hornets acquired forward Dorian Finney-Smith and three future second-round picks—including a 2027 pick from Memphis and 2028 and 2033 picks from Houston—raising their stockpile to 20 second-round selections through 2033.
Finney-Smith’s three-year, $39 million contract is non-guaranteed for the final two years, with Charlotte owing $13.3 million in 2026-27.
The Hornets must cut two players, and Pat Connaughton is the most likely because his salary becomes fully guaranteed on 1/31/2027.