The Charlotte Hornets are reportedly set to meet with Tyreke Evans who is a free agent this summer.
According to John Martin of ESPN, Tyreke Evans has a meeting set up with the Charlotte Hornets this offseason. The 28-year old is also set to meet with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Golden State Warriors. The Memphis Grizzlies could also enter the race for the versatile playmaker.
Evans’ brother revealed that the Queen City team was one of three teams who has a meeting with Tyreke. The former Rookie of the Year is an unrestricted free agent after spending the past season with the Grizzlies. Coming off of a bounce-back year, his stock is high going into free agency with contending teams vying for his signature.
A number of teams were looking to trade for Evans before the trade deadline including the Boston Celtics, the Denver Nuggets, the Philadelphia 76ers, the Miami Heat and the Washington Wizards. Memphis ultimately decided not to move Tyreke as they didn’t think they would receive top value if they dealt him.
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During the 2017-18 season, Evans averaged 19.4 points per game, 5.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals. He also managed to shoot 45.2% from the field, 39.9% from three and 78.5% from the free throw line. Tyreke appeared in 52 games making 32 starts for Memphis as he was their best player.
The 6’6 guard/forward has the ability to play point guard, shooting guard, and small forward. Tyreke could be an option for Charlotte’s backup point guard role as they search for another ball handler this offseason. Evans may be the perfect backcourt partner for Malik Monk off of the bench as he gives the Hornets more size behind Kemba Walker.
Mitch Kupchak has an $8.8 million Mid-Level Exception to spend on free agents this summer. That could be enough to add Evans. Tyreke is considered one of, if not, the highest-rated free agent shooting guard this offseason.
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It will be interesting to see if the Hornets can land Tyreke Evans with other contenders like the Lakers, Thunder, and Warriors wanting to sign him. Charlotte can offer him a guaranteed prominent role with them next season.