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Deal Details & Context
- Contract: Three years, $24 million total (≈ $8 million per year) — reported by ESPN and confirmed via Reuters.
- Qualifying offer strategy: Charlotte initially declined the ~$7 million QO, letting Mann hit unrestricted free agency, but immediately re-signed him once free agency began.
- Health caveat: Mann played only 13 games in 2024–25 due to a herniated disc in his back, which sidelined him for five months, but he was on track for a healthy return.
Mann’s Performance & Role
- Stats before injury: Averaged 14.1 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 3.0 apg in 24.5 mpg — demonstrating scoring punch off the bench.
- Thunder tenure: Drafted No. 18 overall in 2021, Mann posted 8.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg, and 1.7 apg across 140 games with OKC .
- Hornets backup: Following his trade from OKC in Feb 2024, he became a key reserve behind LaMelo Ball. His depth and scoring ability were spotlighted in coverage by Clutch Points.
Strategic Fit & Team Outlook
- Charlotte’s backcourt makeover: The Hornets also added Collin Sexton via trade, reportedly planning Mann as a crucial bench spark.
- Scoring off the bench: At 24, Mann gives a potent offensive option as a sixth man, capable of scoring in various ways — particularly valuable for a team with aspirations of growth .
- Resilience recognized: Despite his injury, Mann’s ability to bounce back in training and regain form strengthened the Hornets’ confidence in securing a multiyear commitment .
Implications & Future Impact
- Roster continuity: Securing Mann early ensures Charlotte maintains bench depth and finishing power behind their young core. Dropping the QO improved cap flexibility.
- Growth trajectory: Full health coming into 2025–26 positions Mann to build on his breakout production, potentially earning even more responsibility.
- Backcourt chemistry: Alongside Ball and Sexton, Mann helps form a dynamic three-guard rotation with scoring versatility and ball creation.
Bottom Line
The three-year, $24 million deal is a smart long-term investment for the Hornets in a promising young guard. It rewards Mann’s 2024–25 breakout, acknowledges his injury recovery, and secures a cornerstone for Charlotte’s bench unit and offensive identity.
For Mann, it’s a fresh start—healthy, confident, and poised to play a bigger role in a retooled Hornets lineup.