Hawks reportedly target Buddy Hield and Dorian Finney-Smith in trade talks. Image via: NBA
The Hawks have explored ways to move Hield’s $9.7 million salary throughout the summer, and league sources now say discussions with Charlotte have included Dorian Finney-Smith. Atlanta’s roster decisions have put Buddy Hield at the center of another trade conversation, with the Charlotte Hornets emerging as a potential destination for the veteran guard.
How the Buddy Hield-Dorian Finney-Smith swap could help each team
Category Player Current Team Buddy Hield, Atlanta Hawks Rumored Team Charlotte Hornets Contract Status $9.7M for 2026-27; $9M player option for 2027-28 Salary Cap Hit Hield: $9.7M; Finney-Smith: $14.1M Trade Likelihood Talks ongoing; agreement remains uncertain Latest Insider Update Jake Fischer reports on-and-off trade discussions Potential Return Dorian Finney-Smith The basic appeal for Atlanta is quite straightforward. Finney-Smith, meanwhile, offers a very different profile as a 6-foot-7 forward capable of providing size and defensive versatility. Finney-Smith is scheduled to make $14.1 million in 2026-27, compared with Hield’s $9.6 million figure cited by Bleacher Report. His $13.3 million salary for 2027-28 is non-guaranteed, giving Atlanta flexibility beyond this season.
Buddy Hield gives the Hawks perimeter shooting, but the team has a crowded backcourt and has been looking to move his contract. Another important detail to notice here is the financial structure. For Atlanta, Finney-Smith would address a positional need created by Mo Gueye’s foot injury. The forward is expected to miss three to four months, leaving the Hawks with fewer physical options behind Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu.