Ahead of the final game before the All-Star break, the Charlotte Hornets have filled their final two-way roster spot. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Hornets have signed guard Damion Baugh to a two-way contract. Baugh has spent the entire season so far in the G League with the Westchester Knicks. Through 18 games, he is averaging 12.6 points, 9.6 assists, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 steals.
The Charlotte Hornets are signing guard Damion Baugh to a two-way NBA contract out of G League’s Westchester Knicks, sources tell ESPN. Baugh has averaged nearly 13 points and 10 assists in G League.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 12, 2025
Charlotte Hornets Sign Damion Baugh to 2-Way Contract
What Damion Baugh Brings to the Charlotte Hornets
Given that he is on a two-way contract, it is unlikely Baugh will have a big role in Charlotte this season. Regardless, there is a lot to like about his game. He is a very well-rounded player who excels as a passer and a defender. Furthermore, he is very athletic and can score pretty well at the rim. He does not have much of a jumpshot, but he still provides some value on the offensive side of the ball.
Baugh also provides depth in the Hornets’ backcourt. LaMelo Ball has missed seven of Charlotte’s last 11 games and was forced out of action early on Monday due to an ankle injury. Having an extra guard on the roster will prove beneficial for the Hornets, especially if Ball misses significantly more time.
The Charlotte Hornets’ Season So Far
To no surprise, the Hornets rank as one of the worst teams in the NBA. They are 13-38 and have one of the worst offenses in the league. Furthermore, they have won just five games since the turn of the calendar.
At the trade deadline, the Hornets made a few moves. Most notably, they traded Cody Martin to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for veteran big man Jusuf Nurkic. Earlier in the year, the Hornets also sent Nick Richards to the Suns as well for Josh Okogie. The Hornets did make another trade at the deadline, sending Mark Williams to the Los Angeles Lakers for Dalton Knecht. However, due to Williams’ failed physical, this trade was rescinded.
There is a lot of basketball left to be played, but it will be incredibly difficult for the Hornets to make a postseason appearance. Nonetheless, there is a lot to like about this team. Besides Ball, the Hornets have some intriguing young players like Brandon Miller and Tidjane Salaun. Additionally, before his injury earlier in the season, guard Tre Mann was in the midst of a career year. The Hornets are not likely to be a championship contender for a long time. However, even given their lackluster season, there are reasons to have belief in the Hornets for the long haul.
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