Hornets Acquire Injured Coby White, Believe He'll Return Soon

Charlotte traded for the Bulls guard before the deadline, but he's yet to play due to a calf injury.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 9:31am

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The Charlotte Hornets traded for Chicago Bulls guard Coby White before the NBA trade deadline, but he has yet to play for the team due to a nagging calf injury that is expected to keep him out through the All-Star break. While the Hornets have lost some depth with the trade and Coby's injury, the team believes he will return soon and be a key part of their playoff push.

Why it matters

The Hornets made the trade for White with an eye on the playoffs, not just the immediate games. Though his injury has left them shorthanded in the short term, the team is confident he will be back soon and can help them make a postseason run.

The details

In the trade, the Hornets sent Collin Sexton to the Bulls. While Sexton has played well, the Hornets felt White was the better long-term fit. The team is also reportedly looking to extend or re-sign White, who will be a free agent this summer. Though missing a few early games due to injury is not ideal, the Hornets believe White's potential impact down the stretch makes the trade worthwhile.

  • Coby White was traded to the Hornets before the NBA trade deadline.
  • White's calf injury is expected to keep him out through the All-Star break.

The players

Coby White

A guard who was traded from the Chicago Bulls to the Charlotte Hornets before the NBA trade deadline.

Collin Sexton

A guard who was traded from the Hornets to the Bulls in the deal for Coby White.

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What’s next

The Hornets will monitor Coby White's recovery and hope to have him back in the lineup after the All-Star break to help make a playoff push.

The takeaway

The Hornets made a calculated move to acquire Coby White, prioritizing his potential long-term impact over the short-term loss of depth due to his injury. If White can return and help the team make a postseason run, the trade will be considered a success despite the initial setback.