The Hornets still have an open roster spot. There have been rumors about keeping it clear to improve their flexibility. They are over the cap, but well under the luxury tax line. Charlotte may get involved in another trade and need to take back more players than they send out.
Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer linked several teams to Marcus Morris Sr. (subscription required), including the Hornets. Charlotte signed Taj Gibson and needs veterans to help their young talent develop. The potential signing stops making sense after examining their current roster.
The Hornets do not have minutes for Marcus Morris Sr.
Charlotte shockingly gave Miles Bridges a three-year $75 million contract this offseason, which locks him in as a starter. They are building around Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. The Hornets also have Grant Williams, Josh Green, and Cody Martin searching for minutes at the two through four.
Morris Sr. is best at the four at this stage of his career, but what minutes are available? Bridges played over 37 per game last season, and Grant Williams got 30-plus. That leaves nothing for other players unless the Hornets are set on giving Bridges all of his run at the three.
Charlotte just drafted a power forward with the sixth overall pick, and this interest likely foreshadows Salaun’s role as a rookie.
Interest in Marcus Morris Sr. means Tidjane Salaun is not ready to play for the Hornets
Salaun played 23.4 minutes per game last season for Chlote Basket in France and showed some warts during summer league. He turns 19 on August 10, but the rookie is not ready for NBA minutes.
The Hornets have massive long-term hopes. Those appear on hold, especially if they fill their final roster spot with a veteran forward looking for a nightly rotation role.
Morris Sr. has no shortage of suitors. Pompey linked the Cavaliers, 76ers, Pistons, Heat, Pelicans, and Timberwolves to the 34-year-old. The veteran being available this late in the offseason is a bit surprising, but expect him to find a new home before training camp.
It would be shocking to see Marcus Morris Sr. sign with the Charlotte Hornets. The franchise should be focused on developing their young talent, which means giving them consistent minutes. They need Salaun to play. Signing a veteran over him makes little sense, but the Hornets are no strangers to completing a baffling move.