Hornets' Pat Connaughton Grabs 3 Boards in Season-Ending Loss

Veteran forward played limited role in 2025-26 season, future in Charlotte uncertain

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:51pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball player's movements, with sharp planes of teal, purple, orange, blue, and black colors representing the opposing teams.A cubist interpretation of a basketball player's final moments of the season, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the player's future.Charlotte Today

Pat Connaughton, a veteran forward for the Charlotte Hornets, played 6 minutes in the team's 121-90 Play-In Game loss to the Orlando Magic on Friday. Connaughton produced 2 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist in the season-ending defeat. He saw limited action for the Hornets this past season, averaging 2.6 points, 1.5 rebounds, 0.4 assists, and 0.3 steals in 7.1 minutes per game across 42 regular-season appearances off the bench.

Why it matters

Connaughton's declining production over the past few years has raised questions about his future with the Hornets, who hold a $3.82 million team option for him in the 2026-27 season. His limited role in the team's season-ending loss could be an indication that the Hornets are considering moving in a different direction.

The details

In Friday's Play-In Game loss, Connaughton saw the floor after collecting two straight DNP-CDs (Did Not Play - Coach's Decision). He made 1 of his 2 field goal attempts, including 0-for-1 from 3-point range.

  • The Hornets' season ended on Friday, April 18, 2026 with the 121-90 loss to the Magic.

The players

Pat Connaughton

A veteran forward for the Charlotte Hornets who has seen his production decline in recent seasons.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Connaughton's limited role and declining production in his final game of the season raise questions about his future with the Hornets, who will have to decide whether to pick up his $3.82 million team option for the 2026-27 season.