Why It Was Important for the Hornets to Re-Sign This 2021 Draft Pick
Yesterday, it was reported that the Hornets had re-signed Tre Mann. The 2021 draft pick signed a new three-year contract. $24 million deal to remain in the Queen City. Mann’s first season with the Hornets was a success as he showed his offensive potential in Charles Lee’s first season coaching the team. He averaged 14 points, two rebounds, and three assists on 43% shooting. He also shot a career-best, 40% from the three-point line. Now, with his future secured, Mann can focus on building the momentum he established last season to help the Hornets get out of the cellar of the Eastern Conference. However, in an offseason where the team drafted and traded for multiple guards, Mann’s return was the most important thing the front office did this summer.
The former Florida Gator is going to serve as the team’s sixth man going forward. Mann has the quick handles, shot efficiency, and ball-handling skills that are necessary to provide a spark off the bench for Charlotte. His ability to create scoring opportunities off the dribble impressed Hornets coaches and players last season. It was evident how crucial Mann’s role on the team last year was, as the bench production suffered after his back injury. In response to this, the Hornets made moves in the offseason, such as drafting Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeely and trading for Collin Sexton. Now, Charlotte has a crowded backcourt with a mixture of guys who have potential and veteran experience. So, having a guy like Mann that they already know about will serve the Hornets well, knowing that they have a guy who can come into any game and be efficient from the field.
Aside from his defensive liabilities, Tre Mann's return to the Hornets is a win for the organization. He is young, experienced, and still has room for improvement in his game. He emerged as a significant playmaker for the team last year, and now he has positioned himself as a valuable piece to the backcourt in the years to come. Charlotte believes in Mann, and now it is up to him to prove them right.
