Kai Jones, the 19th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, was waived by the Charlotte Hornets on October 11, 2023, after he requested a trade from the team on social media. The Hornets had kept Jones away from training camp due to personal reasons, and there was no timetable for his return. Jones had exhibited bizarre behavior on social media, including an incoherent Instagram Live video where he referenced drug use and doubts that he would be traded. The team cited "personal reasons" for keeping him away from the team. Jones had tweeted that he had "officially requested to be traded from the Charlotte Hornets" on October 9, 2023.

Jones had a strong showing at the NBA Summer League, including an impressive defensive performance against Victor Wembanyama, and was expected to take on a bigger role this season. However, through two seasons, Jones had only averaged 2.7 points and 2.0 rebounds in 9.1 minutes per game. The Hornets had traded their 2024 first-round pick to the New York Knicks to acquire Jones.

Jones future in the NBA is uncertain, as his behavior on social media has raised concerns about his mental health. He is now set to hit free agency, and his opportunities around the league are looking sparse due to the "liability" label he put on himself.