Gordon Hayward won’t seek buyout if he remains in Charlotte

The Charlotte Hornets are actively searching the trade market for potential deals involving Gordon Hayward. However, two significant challenges in this pursuit are Hayward’s hefty $31.5 million contracts and his recurrent health issues. His recent absence from the court, spanning 22 games, is attributed to a strained calf.

If the Hornets are unsuccessful in securing a trade for Hayward, it appears improbable that the 33-year-old forward will opt for a buyout. Instead, the more likely scenario involves Hayward letting his current contract run its course with Charlotte.

Following its expiration, he may then explore the possibility of negotiating a new deal, either with the Hornets or through a sign-and-trade arrangement, leveraging his Bird Rights.