The Boston Celtics have pulled off a sign-and-trade of Gordon Hayward after all.
Boston announced Sunday that it has traded Hayward to the Charlotte Hornets for a future second-round pick. The trade also creates a trade exception for the Celtics, which likely will be worth $30 million because Hayward is set to make $30 million per season with the Hornets.
We have traded Gordon Hayward and 2 future second round draft picks to the @hornets in exchange for a conditional future second round draft pick. The sign-and-trade agreement also creates a trade exception for Boston.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) November 29, 2020
The Celtics can now use that $30 million to sign a player it acquires via free agency or trade within the next year.
Boston could end up landing a solid player for $30 million, and the C's could even end up getting James Harden if they make a few more moves. It's unlikely, but always a possibility.
The Hornets made room for Hayward by waiving Nic Batum and his $27.1 million salary using the league's stretch provision on Sunday.
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