Terry Rozier Speaks on Trade Deadline Rumors

Will the Hornets part ways with the veteran guard this week?

It's that time of year. 

Rumors and reports are swirling linking several players around the league to potential trades. 

This year is no different for Terry Rozier, who has seemingly been in trade rumors his entire career be it in Boston or Charlotte. This time, though, it feels like the rumors could turn into reality.

With the Hornets currently holding a record of 15-40, this is the best time for general manager Mitch Kupchak to move some of his veterans and look to build for the future with younger players and additional draft capital. Along with Rozier, Kelly Oubre Jr., Mason Plumlee, and Jalen McDaniels have gained interest from team's around the league. However, the only player under contract for next season is Rozier. His current deal expires after the 2025-26 season, whereas Oubre, Plumlee, and McDaniels are set to become free agents. So if a team is looking for long-term backcourt help, Rozier is who they'll be targeting. 

“I’ve always been a guy that once I get in between those lines, I can block out anything," said Rozier during Sunday's postgame press conference. "I don’t care what I’m going through. I’ve gone through a tough upbringing and being on the court was my way of getting away from all of that stuff. So when I’m on the court, I don’t think about none of that. Obviously I think this time of year a lot of guys might need a break, you’ve just got to dig deep and give it all you’ve got for these last couple games (before the All-Star break).” 

As for head coach Steve Clifford, he's not fond of the rumor mill either. He doesn't spend his time scanning social media or talking to agents trying to gain information on what players his team may trade/trade for. His concern is with the players and how they deal with the uncertainty.

“I don’t read any of that, so I don’t really know. Over the years what I’ve found out is that a large majority of it is totally unfounded. That’s not a knock on anybody, but most of the rumors are like, ‘Whoa.’ Then you talk to your GM and they’re like, ‘We haven’t even spoken to them.’ That happens all the time, and it’s been like that for the 20-plus years I’ve been in the league. I think it’s very difficult for the players. I think they read it more, their agents read it more. I feel for them. You have guys who have families or guys who love a certain city, but it’s like any job though – no matter how much you like it, there’s parts you don’t like. That’s certainly one of the things about being an NBA player… I think everybody handles stuff differently.” 

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