8. Miles Bridges
Bridges did not play last season after a domestic violence arrest and is suspended for the first ten games of the 2023-24 campaign. Bridges was a restricted free agent this summer that accepted his $7.9 million qualifying offer. It puts him in the final year of his contract and headed towards unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2024.
The 6’6 forward averaged 20.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 0.9 steals in 35.5 minutes per game in the 2021-22 season. He looked ready to become an All-Star and should just be entering his prime. The Hornets could look to move on before the trade deadline to get something in return for Bridges before he hits the open market next summer.
Daryl Morey is one of the league’s best traders. He is known for being active and aggressive in making deals and finding value on the margins. Could he trade for Bridges in hopes his 3-point shooting and defense improve playing next to Joel Embiid? It would be a massive risk given Bridges’ recent history, but desperate times could call for drastic measures in Philly.
Miles Bridges will be back on the court for 40-plus games before the trade deadline, and his play could make him a hot commodity on the market in February. He can veto any trade after accepting his qualifying offer, but the 6’6 forward could be eager for a fresh start.