The Charlotte Hornets Must Re-Sign LaMelo Ball

LaMelo Ball would be the first Hornets player to receive a rookie max extension under Michael Jordan

When NBA Free Agency begins on Friday, June 30th at 6pm EST, everyone will be paying attention to Kyrie Irving's future with the Dallas Mavericks and whether Draymond Green will return to the Golden State Warriors. 

However, the biggest story for the Charlotte Hornets will be whether LaMelo Ball signs a maximum contract extension.

Ball is eligible to sign a five-year contract extension worth $202.5 million, which would take effect in the summer of 2024. If Ball is selected for one of the All-NBA teams within the first three years of the contract, the value of his contract would increase to $243 million. 

This contract extension will be a litmus test for the new team owners to see how willing they are to invest in the team. It is crucial for the franchise to make it a priority to reach a timely agreement for the full contract extension. The franchise has developed a reputation for not adequately compensating their players, especially after Kemba Walker's departure. To avoid repeating that mistake and to prevent a prolonged and contentious negotiation process, they must act swiftly and secure the extension.

LaMelo has noticeable weaknesses in his playing style. He has faced issues with his health, which resulted in limited availability on the court. He has also struggled with finishing near the basket, scoring in isolation, and his defensive skills are below average. Despite these challenges, the Hornets should not over complicate contract negotiations. Instead, they should prioritize securing his contract extension promptly. It is worth noting that a good point of reference would be Darius Garland, who signed a maximum five-year contract on July 2nd, 2022.

The Hornets' front office may have the intention to include additional incentives based on games played and reaching the playoffs in LaMelo Ball's contract extension. If you can come to terms on an agreement quickly then that is a clear win. 

However, this isn't a Zion Williamson type of situation. LaMelo has played 162 to Zion's 85 games at the same point in their career, there also aren't the same concerns with conditioning. Pursuing those risk mitigation factors carries the risk that the player in return requests certain privileges such as a player option in the fifth year, a decision the team could regret in 2028. Engaging in prolonged negotiations also puts the team at risk of alienating their most talented player.

Ball has said repeatedly he's happy in Charlotte, last year telling Joe Vardon of The Athletic the following:

“I feel like I still kind of got that mentality that they had back in the day,” Ball said. “Even with the switching teams and stuff, they never used to do that. You go to one team, you stay there.”

The notion of spending his entire career in Charlotte may seem unlikely, even for the most optimistic Hornets fans. It is more typical for small-market superstars to spend around 8-9 years with one team before considering other opportunities. If the Hornets haven't established themselves as a regular playoff team by that time, it would be understandable for the player to explore new opportunities that give them a chance to compete.

Don't outsmart yourselves on this one Charlotte, reach an agreement early in free agency and move onto the other areas of the rebuild. 

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