8. Charlotte Hornets signing LaMelo Ball to big extension
`As the Charlotte Hornets begin a new era for the franchise, in which they are led by new ownership, it was important for there to be some foundation in place. Whether you agree with it or not, that’s exactly what was accomplished with the Hornets drafting Brandon Miller and then signing LaMelo Ball to a five-year, $260 million extension. For better or worse, the Hornets are going to be led (toward success or failure) by Ball and Miller.
On one hand, the Hornets were basically stuck with Ball. They had to sign him to an extension and clearly didn’t want to risk damaging the relationship between both sides. It’s completely understandable but that is without a doubt a lot of money for a player that is, for the most part, still very much unproven.
Coming off an injury-plagued season, Ball will have plenty to prove this season and this new contract only puts that much more weight on his shoulders. Despite the injuries he had to overcome last season, Ball averaged 23 points, eight assists, and six rebounds on 38 percent shooting from 3-point range.
In a vacuum, that’s a player you pay. I get it. But that doesn’t mean this move won’t come without its risks or questions either.