Pat Connaughton joins Charlotte in trade with Milwaukee

The Bucks were looking to offload Connaughton’s $9.4 million salary for the upcoming season to free up cap space for other acquisitions, particularly to sign free agent Myles Turner at center. The 31-year-old guard saw his playing time decrease last season, appearing in only 41 games with averages of 5.3 points and 2.7 assists.

The Milwaukee Bucks are trading Pat Connaughton and two of their own second-round picks (2031, 2032) to the Charlotte Hornets for Vasilije Micic, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/gLnvpeG2NX

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025

Connaughton, who helped Milwaukee win the NBA title in 2021, leaves the franchise after several seasons of loyal service. This departure is part of a major shake-up for the Bucks, who recently cut Damian Lillard.

Charlotte bets on experience and accumulates assets

For the Hornets, this trade represents an opportunity to acquire an experienced player with an NBA championship pedigree who can mentor their young roster. Micic, the 31-year-old Serbian point guard heading to Milwaukee, split his time between Charlotte and Phoenix last season, averaging 7.5 points per game with the Hornets.

Charlotte, looking to build for the future, was happy to accommodate Milwaukee while acquiring additional draft picks. The franchise has also finalized other moves, including extending Tre Mann for three years and $24 million, as well as signing center Mason Plumlee for one year.

However, Connaughton’s arrival could create a logjam at the guard positions, with Brandon Miller returning from injury, Collin Sexton’s arrival, and the recent draft selection of Kon Knueppel. Managing minutes will be a challenge for the Hornets’ coaching staff.