Apr 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) celebrates after scoring against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-USA TODAY Sports
Free agent forward Miles Bridges will return to Charlotte, signing a three-year deal with the Hornets worth $75 million, according to multiple reports Saturday.
Bridges, 26, had explored alternative scenarios before ultimately deciding to remain in Charlotte, where he’s coming off a productive season after an extensive period of turmoil off the court.
After pleading no contest to felony domestic abuse charges, Bridges didn’t play at all in the 2022-23 season and was suspended for Charlotte’s first 10 games last season.
However, the former Michigan State standout was a model of consistency on the court after returning. In 69 games (67 starts), Bridges averaged career highs of 21 points and 7.3 rebounds and added 3.3 assists per game.
The 12th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, Bridges has career averages of 14.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game in 360 games (255 starts) with the Hornets, who acquired him from the Los Angeles Clippers on draft day.
The Charlotte Hornets have secured the services of forward Miles Bridges for the next three years, with the player reportedly signing a $75 million contract to stay with the team. This news comes after Bridges had explored other options but ultimately decided to continue with the Hornets.
Bridges, who is 26 years old, had faced some challenges off the court, including pleading no contest to felony domestic abuse charges. As a result, he missed the entire 2022-23 season and was suspended for the first 10 games of the following season. However, once he returned to the court, Bridges showed his talent and dedication, putting up impressive numbers in points, rebounds, and assists.
The former Michigan State player has been a key player for the Hornets since being acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2018 NBA Draft. With career averages of 14.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Bridges has proven himself as a valuable asset to the team.
Overall, the decision for Bridges to stay in Charlotte is a positive one for both the player and the team. It allows him to continue his career with a team that he is familiar with, while also giving the Hornets a talented player to contribute to their success on the court.
This signing is a step forward for Bridges as he looks to put his off-court troubles behind him and focus on his game. With his skills and determination, he will undoubtedly be a key player for the Hornets in the seasons to come.
