A lot has changed for the Charlotte Hornets this season. The most abundant came with Michael Jordan discounting his role in the ownership. Since the news, fans have frowned upon their franchise for the decisions they have made. Drafting Brandon Miller, a star guard from Alabama earned them heaps of scrutiny. Yet there was one move that the fans couldn’t fault, giving LaMelo Ball the max.
Part of the infamous Ball family, the youngest, arguably blossomed into the best. His substantial talent earned him an expensive $260 million contract. Somehow, that hasn’t affected the Hornets in paying any punishment expenses.
Michael Jordan and the Hornets are farthest away
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The NBA’s luxury tax is designed to hurt the financially misbehaving teams. The Golden State Warriors have been repeat offenders. Unsurprisingly, they lie at the top of the ones affected by the rules of the luxury tax. Due to their lucrative contracts for superstars like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and now even Draymond Green, they will pay the most in the coming season. According to Spotrac, the 2021 champions are liable to pay an estimated $180 million in luxury tax.
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Such remains the case for most teams with multiple max contract stars. Despite Russell Westbrook taking a humongous pay cut, the Los Angeles Clippers will pay $108 million in luxury tax. This is majorly due to both Paul George and Kawhi Leonard making over $40 million each.
The Hornets, too, have Ball, who only recently signed the massive $260 million extension. But it doesn’t kick in until the 2024-25 season. Michael Jordan and the Hornets will only have to pay him $10 million in salaries for the upcoming season. Their total wage bill only amounts to $116 million, the lowest in the league. The franchise is crowded with young players who are yet to make a jump into their prime. Gordon Hayward will be the highest earner, making $31,500,000. Miller, who is only a rookie, is the fourth highest-paid player on the roster, making nearly the same as LaMelo Ball.
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The Hornets are among the sides who will completely avoid the payments of any luxury tax. However, they might have to prepare to face the issue come the 2024-25 season. How long do you think the Charlotte Hornets will avoid the additional payments? Let us know your views in the comments below.