Celtics complete Gordon Hayward sign-and-trade with Hornets
By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
Two weeks after it was initially announced Gordon Hayward would be joining the Charlotte Hornets, the Hornets and Celtics have worked out an official sign-and-trade.
First reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic Sunday afternoon, the Celtics will receive a trade exception and second-round pick from the Hornets for Hayward’s rights. Boston is sending two second-round picks back as well.
According to Marc Stein of the New York Times, the trade exception is worth $27.9 million – the largest in NBA history. The Celtics can use the exception to make a trade without having to balance salaries, up to the amount of the exception.
The Celtics also acquired trade exceptions worth $4.7 million and $2.5 million this offseason. They expire if not used after one year.
If Danny Ainge wants to use the exception to add to the opening night roster, expect a move to come soon. The Celtics open training camp on Tuesday, with their preseason opener coming two weeks after that. The NBA season is slated to begin December 22, although the official schedule has not yet been announced.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].