The Charlotte Hornets are converting two-way forward Moussa Diabate to a standard three-year NBA contract, sources told ESPN.
The Hornets officially announced the signing Sunday but did not disclose terms.
The move comes one day after the Lakers nixed their trade with the Hornets, according to sources, when Charlotte’s Mark Williams failed a physical administered by Los Angeles.
If the 7-foot Williams had ended up on the Lakers, the 6-foot-9 Diabate would have been in line for an expanded frontcourt role with the Hornets. The former second-round draft selection has flashed upside throughout the season, recording 12 games with double-digit rebounds and four double-doubles.
Diabate, 23, is averaging 4.7 points and 7.1 rebounds in 42 games this season, his first with the Hornets.