The Charlotte Hornets haven’t made any major signings this summer, but they did secure their star of the future on a massive new contract.
LaMelo Ball, who played just 36 games last season, has reportedly agreed to a new max extension worth about $260 million over the next five years and it ranks among the most expensive contracts we’ve seen in the modern NBA.
$52M per yer for LaMelo 👀
Too high, or just right? pic.twitter.com/EWsWDwemz0
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 1, 2023
The Hornets are experiencing some uncertainty with regards to the future of the franchise. As reported earlier this year, Michael Jordan is selling his stake in the team and a new owner will soon take his place.
Meanwhile, GM Mitch Kupchak continues to try and build a legitimate playoff roster behind the scenes. With LaMelo and the newly drafted Brandon Miller, there is hope that the Hornets can finally start to compete after years of being in basketball purgatory.
Is LaMelo A Franchise Player?
There is no doubt that Ball is the best player on his team, but there are questions if he’s a guy who can lead a team to the title. Besides some health concerns (only one season where he played over 36 games), Ball isn’t a super reliable defender and he doesn’t have the kind of work ethic that some fans want to see.
“This LaMelo Ball, when he’s the face of your franchise, you’re all about style and substance,” said an anonymous NBA player. “You’re not about competitiveness, you’re not about toughness, you’re not about winning. LaMelo’s gotta grow up. I see nothing from him, not in year three, that shows me he cares about winning. I don’t believe that he does.”
Obviously, the Hornets believe in their star point guard and now they’ve got no choice but to rock with him and see how it goes. But for a Hornets team that struggles to stay relevant, it’s much better to risk it all on LaMelo instead of letting him go for nothing in return.
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