The Charlotte Hornets Could Trade for Houston’s Former Lottery Pick

With the 2026-2027 NBA season just getting started a few weeks ago, each team has played between 10 and 12 games so far. Even with that relatively small sample size, some organizations are already trying to shake some things up. Unsurprisingly, those changes are often brought on by rosters catching the injury bug. 

That’s exactly what we saw with the Oklahoma City Thunder, when losing three starters and two all-stars promoted them to make the first trade of the season. They’ve managed to stay afloat with a 8-4, but the same can’t be said about the team they traded with. 

The 1-10 Sacramento Kings illustrate the other reason why teams make early season trades; their season is already going down the drain. While that can partially be attributed to Ben Simmons’ injury, it’s clear that the Kings have deeper issues. 

The same can be said about the Charlotte Hornets, which is why they could very well be the next team to make a trade. After acquiring Naz Reid in exchange for LaMelo Ball this summer, they’re seemingly already regretting that decision. 

On October 28th, Reid was benched for the entire second half in just his fourth game with his new team. While his minutes and production have gone back up, it’s still been reported that they’re looking to move him. His $23.3 million salary matches perfectly with a player from the Houston Rockets. 

Jabari Smith Jr. is in the first season of his 5-year rookie extension worth $122 million, making $23.6 million this year. The Hornets have reportedly taken an interest in him, as we previously discussed a possible trade here on Roundtable. 

While Miles Bridges is no longer on the table, I’d much rather have Naz Reid anyways. He’s more of a true center, a better three-point shooter, and has actual playoff experience. It’s not even a comparison when you factor in each player’s life outside of basketball. 

I would’ve swapped Smith Jr. for Reid in a heartbeat this summer. The Rockets needed shooting, and still do need some reliable center depth, as covered on Roundtable. There would’ve been further moves to make, but I wouldn’t have been upset with Rafael Stone pursuing that option if it were available. 

Now just a couple months later, I’m not so sure anymore. Houston’s former lottery pick has been picture perfect for his squad this season. He’s on the verge of 50-40-90 shooting splits, emulating the career efficiency of his teammate, Kevin Durant. That's why you don’t give up on guys who are only 23 years old. 

Don’t be surprised if you see Jabari Smith Jr. popping up in headlines, particularly with the Hornets trying to offload Naz Reid. It should come as no surprise that teams want Houston’s young stud, but they’d have to pay an exorbitant price for him. Rafael Stone could’ve pulled the trigger before, and is now reaping the benefits of his patience.