Boston had long sought Reid, dating back to discussions at the start of the season. In the wake of the LaMelo Ball trade, Reid was again mentioned in Brown trade scenarios, according to well-connected league sources.
The discussions also indicated that the Hornets would need to include another forward to make any Brown deal work financially. Specifically, Miles Bridges—on an expiring contract valued at $22.83 million—was viewed as a necessary piece to balance salaries in a Brown trade. However, the sentiment around these talks cooled over time.
Brown would represent a significant fit for a team building around young forwards, bringing scoring and playmaking. In the 2025-2026 season, Brown averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, much of it without the presence of a fully healthy starring teammate. He is slated to earn $57.07 million for the 2026-27 season and remains under contract through 2029.
Current reporting suggests the Hornets are prioritizing keeping Naz Reid, who has drawn interest from multiple contenders. Reid posted solid numbers for the Timberwolves, recording 13.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game over 77 appearances in the 2025-2026 season. He is set to earn $23 million next season, with a contract that could extend to 2030. Reid is valued for his ability to space the floor, shooting 37.0% from three-point range, and for his on-ball capabilities.
Even as teams monitor the trade market for Reid, the Hornets’ immediate plan appears to be maintaining him in the roster while remaining open to roster adjustments if opportunities arise. While interest from other clubs remains high, current public sentiment indicates Reid staying with Charlotte for the time being.
Additional context about the hypothetical Brown pursuit notes that Brown would bring a higher floor and ceiling to the Hornets, potentially serving as a primary scoring option alongside young talents. His scoring efficiency and versatility would be a key asset for a team looking to accelerate its competitive timeline.
In summary, while exploratory talks about acquiring Jaylen Brown in a package centered on Naz Reid existed, the discussions have cooled, and the Hornets appear inclined to retain Reid for now. Any future movement would likely require additional salary matching and strategic asset considerations, including how to balance forward depth and overall roster construction. The evolving market for Brown and Reid suggests more developments could unfold as teams reassess needs ahead of the next season.
