Charlotte Traded a Starting Center for Jackson, Cash and a Pick
On February 9, 2023, the Hornets sent Mason Plumlee to the Los Angeles Clippers, receiving Reggie Jackson, cash and the Clippers’ 2028 second-round selection. Charlotte’s official announcement confirms each incoming asset. Plumlee was enjoying one of his best seasons, averaging 12.2 points, 9.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists at the time of the trade. Los Angeles had an established scoring-heavy guard roster but wanted a passing big man who could back up its interior players. Charlotte, already outside contention, valued a future choice and financial consideration more than retaining an experienced center. The draft selection was a real future second, not a contingent 2023 first or another unrelated multi-team deal completed on the deadline.
Plumlee Supplied the Clippers with an Experienced Center
Plumlee played in Los Angeles after the trade and was useful as an interior reserve and occasional starter. His ability to pass from the center position gave the Clippers an alternative offensive look when the team needed additional size. He was not acquired to become the club’s primary scorer; the roster already relied on Kawhi Leonard and Paul George for that work. The Clippers’ C+ inherited grade reflects immediate veteran frontcourt availability and playoff depth without ignoring the draft choice surrendered. Plumlee subsequently remained with the Clippers for another season, reinforcing that the team obtained more than a brief contract placeholder. His earlier Charlotte averages cannot be counted as his posttrade Los Angeles production.
Jackson Was Waived, Making the Draft Pick Charlotte’s Durable Return
Although the Hornets received Jackson’s contract, he never became a regular-season Charlotte rotation guard. The team waived him soon after the deadline, and Jackson continued his NBA career elsewhere. The $1 million cash recorded in the inherited asset list and the 2028 Clippers second-rounder therefore carried the durable Charlotte value, while the receiving roster moved on without the veteran. Charlotte’s B grade recognizes asset recovery from an expiring-center decision, not a claim that Jackson provided more on-court production than Plumlee. That distinction prevents a misleading two-player comparison and clarifies why a rebuilding team could prefer a draft choice several years away. The Clippers acquired center minutes; Charlotte received resources for later moves and cleared a roster spot.
Final Verdict
Slight Charlotte Edge. The Hornets earn B for Reggie Jackson’s contract, $1 million cash and the 2028 Clippers second-round pick, though Jackson did not play for Charlotte. Los Angeles receives C+ after adding Mason Plumlee for reserve center and playoff duties.