The Charlotte Hornets may have made their biggest splashes earlier in the season, but they didn’t sit quietly as the trade deadline approached. With a pair of under-the-radar moves, they added flexibility, a couple of intriguing players, and, perhaps most importantly, options-both for the stretch run and the summer ahead.
Tyus Jones Out, Malaki Branham In - And a $7 Million Bonus
Just before the deadline buzzer sounded, the Hornets sent veteran point guard Tyus Jones to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Malaki Branham. On paper, it’s a modest move.
Jones, a steady floor general, wasn’t likely to see much court time in Charlotte with a crowded backcourt ahead of him. Branham, meanwhile, is still more promise than production at this stage in his young career.
But the real win for Charlotte here wasn’t just the player swap-it was the $7 million trade exception created in the deal. That’s a valuable chip. It gives the Hornets the ability to absorb a contract in a future trade without having to send matching salary back, which could be a difference-maker if they’re looking to add talent without sacrificing existing assets.
A Post-Deadline Surprise: Xavier Tillman Sr. Joins the Hornets
Then came a twist. Well after the deadline had officially passed, news broke that Charlotte had executed another deal-this time with the Boston Celtics. The key piece heading to the Hornets: Xavier Tillman Sr., along with $3.5 million in cash.
This one wasn’t about basketball for Boston; it was about the books. By moving Tillman, the Celtics shaved off some salary and avoided the luxury tax. But for Charlotte, this is more than just a financial shuffle.
Tillman may not light up the stat sheet, but he brings a lot to the table. He’s a physical, high-IQ big who can rebound, pass, and stretch the floor just enough to keep defenses honest. He’s also not afraid to mix it up down low-a quality this young Hornets team could use more of.
Beyond the on-court fit, there’s a cultural piece here too. Tillman was a respected voice in the Boston locker room, and his leadership could carry weight in Charlotte.
He also has a championship connection with Hornets head coach Charles Lee, having won a title together in 2024. That kind of shared history can go a long way in setting a tone for a team still trying to find its identity.
What Comes Next?
Of course, nothing is set in stone. Both Branham and Tillman could still be on the move again-either via waivers or if the Hornets find upgrades in the buyout market.
But there’s no rush. Neither player is locked in beyond this season, and both provide depth at positions where Charlotte could use some insurance, especially if injuries strike again.
If the Hornets hold onto them, they’re looking at two players who can contribute in spot minutes and help stabilize the rotation. If they move on, they’ve still gained financial flexibility and opened doors for future roster moves.
The Bigger Picture
With the trade deadline now behind them, the Hornets are shifting focus back to the court-and to the playoff picture. They’ve quietly added some tools that could help them down the stretch, whether it’s through improved bench depth, locker room leadership, or the ability to make a savvy move later thanks to that trade exception.
Charlotte didn’t make a headline-grabbing blockbuster at the buzzer. But what they did do was smart, calculated, and forward-thinking. For a franchise trying to build something sustainable, that’s exactly the kind of approach you want to see.