It hasn't taken long at all for Pat Connaughton to find his footing with the Charlotte Hornets, as the former Milwaukee Bucks wing is reportedly a "popular locker room presence." That is according to NBA insider Marc Stein (subscription required), who reports the Hornets were determined to keep Connaughton in town amid roster cuts. The former Milwaukee Bucks wing is already a great fit there.
Former Bucks wing is already catching attention in Charlotte
It's no surprise that Connaughton is well-liked in his new locker room. During his time in Milwaukee, he was always perceived as a great fit. Whether it was due to him being Giannis Antetokounmpo's weight room partner or just getting everyone fired up before games, Connaughton was a quality teammate who always knew what the assignment was. Even as his role faded, he never lost that spark.
Unlike the Bucks of old, Connaughton is now on a team where he is one of the oldest players. Furthermore, he is the only player on that roster to win a championship. He's been on the biggest stage - and performed incredibly well - before, and that's something young players want to learn about. They want to watch how a veteran like Connaughton carries himself.
While the Hornets are fans of Connaughton now, Stein says their stance could change. They hope the veteran can become a positive trade chip in time, which could help them flip him at the trade deadline for an upgrade. If he can turn back the clock to his playoff riser days with the Milwaukee Bucks, there will be plenty of teams looking to acquire his services for a playoff run this coming season.
Connaughton will always be remembered fondly for his seven-year stint in Milwaukee, but it was time to move on this summer. Not only was the team due for a roster makeover, but they needed to move the wing in order to acquire Myles Turner as they jumped through financial hoops. Once that became clear, the Bucks dumped Connaughton and two second-round picks to Charlotte.
Time will tell if Pat Connaughton can help the Hornets crawl back into the playoff picture and rekindle some of that 2021 magic.
The 2021 playoff hero will fittingly get a tribute video when he returns to Milwaukee, as should the other champions who were let go this year, including Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.