NBA News: Josh Hart was surprised that the Los Angeles Lakers traded him to New Orleans Pelicans
What's the news?
During the 2019 offseason, Josh Hart was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the trade that sent Anthony Davis to Los Angeles. Hart had previously been included in the Lakers' failed trade offer for Davis back in February, although the 24-year-old revealed to Nola.com that he was still surprised that his name was included in the eventual successful trade:
To be honest, if you look at all the trade rumors and all the trade stuff that got out, my name really wasn’t it. But anything that got out, my name wasn’t in it. Even right before it happened, my name wasn’t in it. The only time my name was in it was when it actually happened.
In case you didn't know...
Hart was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 30th pick in the 2017 NBA draft but was subsequently traded to the Lakers. The shooting guard soon established himself as an important player under Luke Walton, and during his two seasons in Los Angeles, Hart made 130 appearances (45 starts), averaging 7.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 24.4 minutes per contest.
The heart of the matter
Hart was a valuable role player to the Lakers, although the Lakers' willingness to give him up as part of the trade for Davis has been justified by their incredible start to the season. The Villanova product has struggled to make much of an impact during his first month with the Pelicans, although, at 24, there is no reason why he shouldn't be able to play a prominent role on a young roster that will continue to develop together.
What's next?
Hart will take on his former team on Wednesday night as the Los Angeles Lakers make the trip to New Orleans to take on the Pelicans.