Forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is finalizing a four-year, $52 million contract extension with the Charlotte Hornets, multiple sources have confirmed. The extension is expected to be completed later this week, running Kidd-Gilchrist’s contract through the 2019-2020 season.
With Kidd-Gilchrist signing this extension, he will avoid becoming a restricted free agent next summer. The Hornets are securing him long term, as he will be joining Kemba Walker as the team’s cornerstone player for the next few seasons.
However, with the addition of Nicolas Batum this offseason, Kidd-Gilchrist’s role may diminish. The 21-year old, who has spent three seasons with the Hornets already, averaged career-highs of 10.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per night last season.
With the possibility of playing off the bench, those numbers may descent, but the former second overall pick is highly praised for his defense and rebounding.
Ultimately, the Hornets may try playing Batum and Kidd-Gilchrist in the frontcourt together or possibly sliding Batum to the two and putting Kidd-Gilchrist at the three.
Whatever head coach Steve Clifford decides to do, expect Kidd-Gilchrist to continue to earn significant minutes in Charlotte’s rotation.
The Hornets have constructed a competitive team this summer, enough to place them in a heated playoff race out East. They have kept their core together while adding a few quality pieces via free agency, trades, and the draft.
As for the future, they will need to lock up Al Jefferson to a long-term deal as well, as the 11-year veteran’s contract is expiring this season.