As the NBA trade deadline ticks down, the Oklahoma City Thunder have made a significant move by acquiring Gordon Hayward from the Charlotte Hornets in a multi-player deal.
NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news on X, stating, “Hornets are expected to acquire a package centered around Tre Mann and salaries, sources said. Mann, a 2021 first-round pick, has upside as a talented young guard. Thunder are sending guard Vasilije Micic, Davis Bertans, Mann, and draft compensation to Hornets as part of the Gordon Hayward deal, sources said.”
Hayward, a seasoned veteran at 33, brings a wealth of experience to the Thunder. The forward is in the final year of his four-year, $120 million contract and is averaging 14.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game this season.
In return, the Hornets receive Mann, Micic, and Bertans from the Thunder. Micic, a former EuroLeague MVP, is on a three-year, $23.5 million contract and is currently averaging 3.3 points and 2.5 assists per game.
Mann, a promising young guard at 23, is averaging 3.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He still has one more year left on his rookie contract, valued at $14 million.
Bertans, a seasoned shooter at 31, brings additional depth to the Hornets’ roster. Bertans has one year remaining on his five-year, $80 million contract and is averaging 2.9 points in limited playing time this season.
