Charlotte Hornets playmaker Kemba Walker is one of the familiar names recently mentioned in the latest batch of NBA trade rumors. Similar to other players involved in these types of discussions, Walker immediately got linked to several teams like the Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, and the New York Knicks.
However, it seems like Charlotte Hornets majority owner Michael Jordan has no plan of letting Kemba Walker go that easy. In a report by The Charlotte Observer, Jordan said that he is "not looking to trade Kemba," but he "would listen to opportunities."
Jordan added that with the trade deadline fast approaching, Charlotte has reached out to other teams.
He admitted that the organizations they have spoken to are eyeing Walker. Interested parties must be willing to make a sacrifice though since according to Jordan, he wants an All-Star player in exchange for the 27-year-old point guard.
It is uncertain at this point if there is a franchise in the league that will give up an All-Star just to take Walker away from Jordan and the Hornets. If nothing happens, it would likely be fine. As Jordan mentioned, they have no intention of parting ways with their longtime franchise star.
Solid season
Kemba Walker continues to perform splendidly for the Charlotte Hornets despite all the NBA trade rumors. In 43 games played so far, Walker is averaging 21.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 5.9 assists, with 1.2 steals per outing.
The former University of Connecticut standout is leading Charlotte in scoring, assists, and steals.
In the Hornets' 112-107 victory over the Sacramento Kings on January 22, Walker led the way with a game-high 26 points. He nearly recorded a double-double as he tallied nine assists as well. Walker also had six rebounds, one steal, and two blocks.
The effort of Walker helped the Michael Jordan-owned squad capture its 19th win. Unfortunately, Charlotte (19-26) is still four games away from the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference which currently belongs to the Philadelphia 76ers (22-21).
Jordan, Walker, and the Hornets are aiming to return to the playoffs this season.
The last time they were in the postseason was in the 2015-16 season. That campaign ended with a first-round exit suffered in the hands of the Miami Heat.
Up next
Next on the schedule of Kemba Walker and the Charlotte Hornets is a showdown with the New Orleans Pelicans at the Spectrum Center on January 24. Following this, they are going to close a five-game homestand on January 26 against the Atlanta Hawks.
