Dorian Finney-Smith is unlikely to play for the Charlotte Hornets, according to recent reports. The veteran forward was acquired by the Hornets from the Houston Rockets, along with three second-round picks. This trade has given the Hornets a total of 20 second-round picks over the next seven years, the second-highest number of tradeable picks in the NBA. Finney-Smith's performance last season was limited, appearing in only 37 games for the Rockets and averaging 3.3 points per game, while shooting 33.3% from the field, 27.0% from 3-point range, and 88.9% from the free-throw line.
The 33-year-old forward has played for several teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Rockets. Throughout his career, Finney-Smith has maintained averages of 8.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in the regular season, and 9.3 points per game in the playoffs. His experience and skills will be valuable to any team he joins next season.
The Charlotte Hornets have been active in the offseason, making significant trades and draft picks. They traded LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Naz Reid, a 2033 unprotected first-round pick, and other future picks. The Hornets also traded Miles Bridges to the Phoenix Suns for Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale, and a 2033 first-round pick. These moves indicate the team's efforts to rebuild and strengthen their roster.
The Hornets' starting lineup for next season is expected to include Coby White, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Reid, and Moussa Diabaté. This lineup looks strong on paper, with a mix of experienced players and young talent. The team also made notable draft picks, selecting Hannes Steinbach and Christian Anderson Jr. in the first round.
Dorian Finney-Smith's future with the Hornets remains uncertain, but his skills and experience make him a valuable asset to any team. As the NBA season approaches, it will be interesting to see where Finney-Smith ends up and how he performs. The Hornets, meanwhile, are looking to improve their standings after missing the playoffs by just one game last season.
The Hornets' fan community is eager to discuss the team's prospects and players like Dorian Finney-Smith. With a strong starting lineup and promising young players, the future of the franchise looks bright. Finney-Smith's situation will be closely watched, and his next move will likely have a significant impact on his career and the team he joins.