Hornets Acquire Jones from Magic for Second-Round Picks

Hornets Acquire Tyus Jones and Second-Round Picks in Trade with Magic

The Charlotte Hornets have acquired guard Tyus Jones and two second-round picks from the Orlando Magic in exchange for cash considerations, the team announced today, February 5, 2026.

Hornets President of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson confirmed the deal. The acquired second-round picks include the least favorable pick between Boston’s and Orlando’s in 2027, and Orlando’s own second-round pick in 2028.

Jones, 29, has appeared in 730 career games, making 226 starts, with the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards. He averages 7.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.0 steals in 20.8 minutes per game.

Originally drafted 24th overall in 2015 by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jones won an NCAA Championship and was named NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player during his single season at Duke University, starting all 39 games for the Blue Devils.

This season with the Magic, Jones averaged 3.0 points and 2.4 assists in 15.7 minutes across 48 appearances, shooting 34.2 percent from the field and 29.4 percent from three-point range. He signed a one-year deal with Orlando in July.

The Hornets now hold 11 first-round picks and 14 second-round picks over the next seven years. The trade allows the Magic to get under the luxury tax, dropping them roughly $5 million below the line and leaving them with 13 players on standard contracts.

To create roster space for Jones, the Hornets waived veteran wing Pat Connaughton, who will receive the remaining balance of his $9.4 million salary. Connaughton appeared in 22 games this season.

The acquisition of Jones, along with Coby White, is expected to provide backcourt depth behind LaMelo Ball and rookie Kon Knueppel. Jones is considered a potential buyout candidate, particularly if the Hornets retain Tre Mann past tomorrow’s 3 P.M. Trade deadline.