Charlotte Acquired Marco Belinelli for Malachi Richardson Draft Rights
On July 7, 2016, Charlotte acquired experienced Italian shooting guard Marco Belinelli from Sacramento in exchange for draft rights to Syracuse wing Malachi Richardson. Sacramento had selected Richardson at No. 22 in the 2016 first round. The Hornets had narrowly lost a seven-game playoff series to Miami earlier that year and wanted additional perimeter scoring. Belinelli had previously played on San Antonio 2014 championship team and brought a reputation for moving without the ball and making outside shots. The Kings preferred a younger draft option in Richardson, who would take time to develop behind other guards. There was no additional first-round pick or veteran player coming to Charlotte, and no cash consideration in the inherited asset record. This agreement converted a fresh rookie right into a proven rotation shooter.
Belinelli Gave Charlotte a Full Season of Bench Scoring
Belinelli appeared in 74 games for the Hornets during 2016-17, averaging 10.5 points and contributing dependable outside shooting. He was not a permanent replacement for a starting star, but his ability to space the floor helped Charlotte rotate guards around Kemba Walker. His prior Spurs playoff success explained why the club sought him, but the specific 74-game Hornets season is the actual direct return from this trade. Charlotte did not return to the 2017 playoffs, and Belinelli moved to Atlanta in another transaction during the following summer. The Hornets B inherited grade reflects one substantial season of reliable bench offense rather than multiple years of new starter production. He was a low-risk veteran whose immediate playing value became more visible as the rookie Richardson struggled to establish an NBA role.
Richardson Did Not Become an Established Sacramento Starter
Richardson had a promising NCAA tournament reputation after Syracuse reached the Final Four, giving Sacramento a legitimate young upside bet. But he made only limited NBA appearances for the Kings over his initial seasons, and the franchise traded him to Toronto in February 2018. His shooting and athleticism never turned him into Sacramento leading wing scorer. The Kings C+ inherited grade recognizes the financial and development appeal of a rookie contract, but the direct team-specific production fell short of Belinelli 74-game Charlotte contribution. Richardson later roster attempts elsewhere should not be credited as Kings minutes. Both teams pursued understandable goals, yet Charlotte enjoyed the clearer immediate basketball return.
Final Verdict
Charlotte Win. The Hornets receive B for Marco Belinelli, who appeared in 74 games and averaged 10.5 points during 2016-17. Sacramento earns C+ after acquiring No. 22 Malachi Richardson draft rights; he did not develop into a long-term Kings starting guard. Charlotte got the proven single-season scoring return.