NBA Trade Rumors: The Hornets could shop P.J. Washington at the deadline

NBA Trade Rumors: According to a recent report, the Charlotte Hornets could be forced to shop P.J. Washington ahead of the trade deadline. 

The Charlotte Hornets have surprisingly been a top 8-ish team in the Eastern Conference for the majority of the season. Though, heading into the NBA Trade Deadline, they likely are going to have to make some important personnel decisions.

A dilemma that nearly every young talented team has; the Hornets simply can’t pay everyone. That leaves the potential for a deadline day deal. Even though Charlotte won’t categorize itself as a seller at the deadline, that’s exactly what they might have to do.

And, according to a recent report, one name that the team could reportedly look to move because of their salary situation is P.J. Washington.

"[via Bleacher Report]The Hornets are facing a similar roster crunch this summer, and it appears P.J. Washington is a trade possibility for Charlotte."

Washington has been a really good player for the Hornets off the bench this season. Though, he’s seen his role with the team diminish this season – largely due to the emergence of Miles Bridges. Because of their vast pool of young talent, the Hornets likely aren’t going to be able to pay Washington what he could warrant on the open market.

Because of that, he becomes a natural player that the team could look to shop over the next few weeks. Washington could hit restricted free agency after next season but is eligible for an extension this offseason.

Charlotte doesn’t necessarily have to trade them at this year’s deadline, but his value is likely not going to be as high as it is now if they wait until the offseason or even until next year’s trade deadline to move him.

Washington, who averages 25 minutes off the bench per game for the Hornets, is averaging 10 points and six rebounds per game on 45 percent shooting from the field and 41 percent shooting from 3-point range.