Tue Jul 15 20:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text, along with some potential avenues for Okogie:

**Hornets Waive Josh Okogie to Avoid Guarantee, Roster Crunch Looms**

**Charlotte, NC** – The Charlotte Hornets have waived wing player Josh Okogie, according to a report by Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer. The move was made ahead of Tuesday’s deadline to guarantee Okogie’s $7.7 million salary for the upcoming season.

The Hornets reportedly explored trade options for Okogie, 27, but were unable to find a suitable partner. The deadline for the guarantee had been pushed back from the original June 30th date to provide the Hornets front office more time to seek a trade involving the 27-year-old wing, but the trade ultimately fell through.

Okogie appeared in 40 games last season, including 16 with the Hornets after being acquired from the Phoenix Suns in January along with three second-round picks in exchange for Nick Richards. In his time with Charlotte, Okogie averaged 8.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in just 16 games (6 starts).

The Hornets’ roster now stands at 18 players on standard contracts, plus three players on two-way deals once Drew Peterson’s contract becomes official, meaning further moves will be necessary to trim the roster to the NBA’s 15-player limit. DaQuan Jeffries and Nick Smith Jr. are reportedly among those whose roster spots could be in jeopardy if the Hornets don’t execute further trades.

With Okogie now a free agent, speculation has already begun about potential landing spots. Online chatter suggests he could be a valuable addition to teams like the Golden State Warriors or the New York Knicks. Given that he is now expected to sign for the veteran’s minimum salary, Okogie may be a steal for any team that needs a versatile defender and spot-up shooter.

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