NBA Rumors: Ranking and predicting where the top 35 NBA free agents will sign

15. P.J. Washington (restricted)

As the Charlotte Hornets head into a new era of their franchise, with a brand-new ownership group, one of their bigger first decisions will rely on what to do with P.J. Washington as he prepares to test restricted free agency.

Coming off the best season of his career, in which he averaged 16 points and five rebounds per game on 44 percent shooting from the field and 35 percent shooting from 3-point range, it would be surprising if the Hornets didn’t retain Washington in free agency. They need to build out their frontcourt and it would appear that Washington is a key part of doing that this offseason.

If nothing else, the Hornets could view Washington as an investment that could pay dividends down the line. They could re-sign him and look to trade him in a year or two if they decide to move in a different direction. For now, though, it would make little sense for the Hornets to let Washington go. Even less so considering he’s a restricted free agent.

I suppose if he does get an outrageous offer, that’s a separate conversation to have. But that’s a path the Hornets won’t have to cross until it happens.

Prediction: Charlotte Hornets