Hornets Waive Pat Connaughton After Tyus Jones Trade

Charlotte had to clear a roster spot after acquiring Tyus Jones from the Magic.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:31pm

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The Charlotte Hornets have waived veteran guard Pat Connaughton following their recent trade for Tyus Jones. Connaughton has played sparingly this season, averaging just 7 minutes per game in 22 appearances. The Hornets had to clear a roster spot after acquiring Jones and several other guards, leaving no room for the 33-year-old Connaughton on the team.

Why it matters

The Hornets have been very active in reshaping their backcourt at the trade deadline, bringing in Coby White, Mike Conley, and now Tyus Jones. Waiving Connaughton was a necessary move to clear a roster spot, as the Hornets now have an abundance of guards on the team.

The details

Connaughton has played a minimal role for the Hornets this season, averaging just 7 minutes per game. With the Hornets acquiring several new guards, including Tyus Jones in a trade with the Magic, the team had to make room on the roster by waiving the veteran Connaughton.

  • The Hornets waived Connaughton on February 5, 2026.

The players

Pat Connaughton

A 33-year-old veteran guard who has played sparingly for the Hornets this season.

Tyus Jones

A point guard acquired by the Hornets in a trade with the Orlando Magic.

Coby White

A guard acquired by the Hornets in a trade with the Cavaliers.

Mike Conley

A veteran guard acquired by the Hornets in a trade with the Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“The Hornets had to clear out a roster spot after acquiring Tyus Jones in a trade, paving the way for Pat Connaughton's departure.”

— Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints NBA Insider

The takeaway

The Hornets have been very active in reshaping their backcourt, bringing in several new guards via trade. Waiving the veteran Connaughton was a necessary move to clear a roster spot, as the team now has an abundance of options at the guard position.