Restrictive free agent, the crazy Hornets dunker Miles Bridges is one of the big names of the Free Agency 2022. And inevitably, we are entitled to a lot of rumors just two days before the opening of the summer market. But Charlotte general manager Mitch Kupchak made a point of clearing things up on Tuesday.
On June 28, the Hornets held a press conference to induct new coach Steve Clifford, back home four years after being dumped by the Charlotte franchise. At his side, there was logically Mitch Kupchak, who also answered a few questions. And one of them was about Miles Bridges, which is North Carolina’s summer hot topic. A little reminder before continuing, the 24-year-old winger – who remains on his best career campaign with more than 20 points, 7 rebounds and almost 4 assists on average – arrives on the market as a restricted free agent and some Rumors have suggested recently that it wasn’t necessarily a done deal. Teams like the Pacers and especially the Pistons – both with cap space – have notably participated in the rumors of the hallway, while the insider Brian Windhorst d’ESPN hinted that the Hornets still haven’t put the max contract Bridges is seeking on the table. What to wonder about the future of Miles in Charlotte, but Kupchak has just announced publicly that he will not go anywhere.
“As a franchise, we love Miles. We’ll make sure he stays. He’s been great for the franchise and I think with his work ethic he can only continue to improve. »
Hop, it was said. So obviously, we have already seen leaders say things publicly before the scenario turns out differently a few days later. And any other declaration in front of the press would clearly have revived speculation for the days to come. However, we still seem to be heading towards a contract extension for Miles in Charlotte, either at the max or close. He represents a very important member of the Hornets project, he is young and on the rise, and his association with maestro LaMelo Ball often makes Top 10 headlines. guarantees before accepting the post of head coach of Charlotte, in particular concerning Bridges.
???? Steve Clifford wouldn’t have returned to Charlotte without some form of guarantee to use Miles Bridges in his roster.
Extension of the future winger, with his defensive qualities Bridges would be fundamental in the success of the Hornets under their new coach. pic.twitter.com/ImPoCL0FsN
— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) June 27, 2022
We remind you that with his restricted free agent status, Miles Bridges does not have his destiny in his hands. He can go test the market if he wishes, he can even commit to a team offering him a max contract, but the Hornets will have the last word. Michael Jordan’s franchise can match any offer made by the competition if they absolutely want to keep their winger. Maybe that’s why she hasn’t offered Bridges a contract yet (if this info is correct of course), because she can wait to see what the market has in store for her player before take a decision. Admittedly, this may upset my friend Miles a little at the time, but there’s a chance that it will pass once all the greenbacks – potentially 173 million (over five years) – are in his bank account.
Despite the rumors, and even the small controversies of recent weeks, we don’t really see Miles Bridges wearing another jersey than the Hornets next year. He is a pillar of the project and Charlotte “adores” him. See you in a few days to see if Mitch Kupchak is a myth or not.
Source texte : Bally Sports Hornets
Miles Bridges is reportedly looking for a max contract.
Hornets GM Mitch Kupchak says the forward is going to stay in a Charlotte uniform.
“We love Miles. We’re going to bring him back.”
???? @HornetsOnBally pic.twitter.com/4MKCGFZpDQ
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) June 28, 2022