At this point in the season, trades are uncommon, especially those involving well-known players, but discussions between Atlanta and Charlotte have resurfaced. According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Atlanta has been exploring a trade sending Buddy Hield to Charlotte in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith. Although the deal hasn’t been finalized, it remains a possibility.
An earlier version of the trade might have involved Devin Carter, but Atlanta waived him recently, and he promptly signed with Boston. For Atlanta, the motivation centers on managing long-term salary commitments, as they tried this summer to offload Hield’s contract. Hield is set to earn $9.7 million this season and has a player option for $10.1 million next year, which he is likely to exercise. In comparison, Finney-Smith’s salary is $13.3 million this season with two additional years after that, but only $3.1 million of his 2027-28 salary is guaranteed. To make the deal more appealing to Houston, Atlanta may need to include additional assets such as draft picks, so it likely wouldn’t be a straightforward player swap.
Finney-Smith, 33, appeared in just 37 games for Houston last season due to ankle surgery and posted career-low stats during that time. The hope is that he’ll bounce back to his consistent 3-and-D role once fully healthy this season. Meanwhile, Hield, also 33, played 51 games last season split between Golden State and Atlanta, averaging 7.6 points per game with a 34.9% three-point shooting mark—his lowest ever.
While this trade may never materialize, both players are expected to be part of ongoing trade discussions as the season progresses.
Fan Take: This potential trade highlights the strategic financial maneuvers teams must make beyond just on-court talent, which can drastically reshape rosters. For fans, tracking these developments adds an exciting layer to the season, as even subtle moves can shift team dynamics and playoff prospects.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
