NBA Roundup: Hornets secure Moussa Diabaté, Pacers discuss Ivica Zubac move, Wizards assess Deni Avdija deal
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Hornets guarantee Diabaté through 2026-27
Charlotte has locked in center Moussa Diabaté for the 2026-27 season, ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk reported. The 23-year-old started 47 games last year after Mark Williams and Jusuf Nurkić moved on, averaging 7.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.0 block. He also earned the NBA’s Hustle Award. Diabaté is set to earn a little more than $2.4 million next season, giving the Hornets cost-controlled depth while he works to expand his offensive repertoire.
Pacers outline reasoning behind Zubac acquisition
Indiana general manager Chad Buchanan said on “The Ride With JMV” that acquiring Ivica Zubac from the Clippers was crucial once it became clear replacing Myles Turner would be difficult. “You’ve gotta have five good starters to go deep into the playoffs,” Buchanan noted. The Pacers sent out a lottery pick but kept their core intact, and Buchanan highlighted Zubac’s team-friendly contract as another factor in the deadline deal.
Wizards still see value in Avdija trade
Deni Avdija has flourished with Portland, yet Washington remains confident the trade that moved him west fits its long-term rebuild, according to Josh Robbins of The Athletic. The Wizards received multiple draft assets, improving their chances for higher lottery selections in coming years. Both teams can currently argue the transaction suits their respective timelines, though a final verdict may take seasons to materialize.
Source: Hoops Wire
