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Hornets send Dorian Finney-Smith to Atlanta for Buddy Hield, Ryan Nembard, AP source says

PUBLISHED Sep 22, 2026, 4:58 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 27

Center 100%

Sources: 27

The Atlanta Hawks have agreed to acquire veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for guard Buddy Hield, guard Ryan Nembhard, and cash considerations, according to league sources. The transaction addresses specific roster needs for both franchises ahead of the upcoming National Basketball Association season. Atlanta secures frontcourt depth and perimeter defense by adding Finney-Smith, integrating a seasoned defender into their rotation. Meanwhile, Charlotte obtains veteran floor-spacing through Hield alongside young backcourt depth with Nembhard, providing financial and roster flexibility. Both teams completed the trade to balance their respective lineups following offseason acquisitions. The deal remains subject to league approval and physical examinations for the involved players, with training camps scheduled to commence shortly across the league. Neither franchise has announced an official introductory press conference schedule for the incoming players.

By Ayesha A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On July 1 2024 free agency negotiations opened across the league.
On July 6 2024 player contracts were officially signed and registered.
On October 22 2024 the regular season officially tipped off nationwide.
On February 6 2025 the annual league trade deadline officially passed.
On April 14 2025 the regular season concluded for all teams.
On June 25 2025 the annual league draft took place in New York.
On July 10 2025 summer league games commenced in Las Vegas.
On September 1 2025 training camp rosters began forming across organizations.
On September 20 2026 sources reported the trade agreement between teams.
On September 23 2026 teams finalize preparations for upcoming training camps.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Atlanta gains immediate frontcourt defensive versatility for regular season rotations.
Possible long-term US impact: Charlotte secures long-term shooting assets and financial flexibility for future builds.
Most affected groups: Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets fans, management, and players.
Reader priority: Readers should monitor official team announcements and verified beat reporters.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 27
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 27

Explain Framing

Left: Evidence was insufficient. Center: Reports focus strictly on verified player statistics and roster impacts. Right: Evidence was insufficient.

Primary Source

Insider reports indicate trade agreement reached between teams on Saturday. https://apnews.com/article/hawks-hornets-trade-4f20e8bd4b0eeee02e81e1ae39616771

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 27
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 27
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Explain Framing

Left: Evidence was insufficient. Center: Reports focus strictly on verified player statistics and roster impacts. Right: Evidence was insufficient.

Primary Source

Insider reports indicate trade agreement reached between teams on Saturday. https://apnews.com/article/hawks-hornets-trade-4f20e8bd4b0eeee02e81e1ae39616771