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Charlotte Hornets Waive NBA Champion Days Before Season Opener Amid Uncertainty Over Coby White’s Return

A thank you note marked the end of Pat Connaughton’s tenure in North Carolina just a week short of his 12th NBA season. The Charlotte Hornets have officially trimmed their roster down to the league-mandated 15-player limit ahead of opening…

Published: Saturday, 17 October 2026 at 10:30 AM
Charlotte Hornets Waive NBA Champion Days Before Season Opener Amid Uncertainty Over Coby White’s Return
Key Things to Know
  • The Charlotte Hornets waived veteran guard and 2021 NBA champion Pat Connaughton to finalize their 15-man roster.
  • Connaughton held a non-guaranteed $3.8 million contract and is now an unrestricted free agent.
  • Starting point guard Coby White missed the preseason with a calf strain and remains questionable for opening night.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Charlotte Hornets have officially waived 33-year-old veteran guard and 2021 NBA champion Pat Connaughton to meet the league's 15-player roster limit ahead of the regular season. Connaughton, who held a non-guaranteed $3.8 million contract for the 2026–27 campaign, was released as Charlotte chose to prioritize a younger core alongside French forward Tidjane Salaün.

Connaughton's departure comes as head coach Charles Lee navigates multiple backcourt injury concerns before the season opener against the Brooklyn Nets. Starting point guard Coby White remains questionable with a calf strain, while wing Kon Knueppel continues to manage a hamstring issue.

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