The Charlotte Hornets tried to make a blockbuster trade.
According to ClutchPoints, the Charlotte Hornets tried to trade for a Western Conference center.
Who was the player? Los Angeles Clippers big man Ivica Zubac.
"Ivica Zubac has been widely considered the Clippers best trade asset, with the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers, and Charlotte Hornets among at least five teams who inquired about the big man's availability when the team was going through its struggles, league sources told ClutchPoints."
The Clippers told the Hornets and other teams they were not interested in trading Zubac.
"The Clippers, however, have rejected trade offers for Zubac, with a belief around the league that they're seeking multiple first-round picks in any potential deal for him. One team offered an unprotected first-round pick and a pick swap in an offer for Zubac, sources said, but those talks didn't go anywhere."
Zubac is averaging 14.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game this season while shooting 60.5% from the field and 72.2% from the free-throw line. He has 21 double-doubles.
Zubac holds career averages of 10.5 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. He's making $18.1 million this season.
It would have been fun to watch Zubac play alongside LaMelo Ball, who is one of the top passers in the NBA. Unfortunately for the Hornets, the Clippers have turned their season around and will keep Zubac.
The Hornets are 16-27 on the season. They are not expected to make any blockbuster trades this season.
Collin Sexton could be moved since he's in the final year of his contract, but most people around the NBA believe Ball and Miles Bridges will remain with the team.
Ball has been linked to the Toronto Raptors and Clippers, while Bridges has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks.
The 2026 NBA trade deadline is February 5 at 3 p.m. ET. It will be fascinating to see if the Hornets make any trades.
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