Charlotte Hornets: Mason Plumlee’s Contract Becomes Fully Guaranteed

With Mason Plumlee still on the Charlotte Hornets’ roster as of Wednesday, his $9.1 million contract has become fully guaranteed.

Already partially guaranteed at $4.6 million, Plumlee would have needed to be waived at least ten days prior to the NBA’s July moratorium period, meaning that June 21st was the date on which the contract became guaranteed.

Charlotte’s starting center for the majority of last season, Plumlee posted averages of 6.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. While he is likely not a starting-caliber center at this point in his career, he still holds some value as a backup center coming off the bench. However, his value mostly derives from his expiring contract, which can now be moved in a trade to help Charlotte find a more permanent solution at the center position. Charlotte is reportedly interested in Myles Turner and Kevon Looney, among others.

Charlotte still projects to finish beneath the luxury tax threshold even with Plumlee’s contract and with Miles Bridges’ impending new contract. At this juncture, the Hornets are wise to at least explore the possibility of getting something in return for Plumlee or moving him to the bench next season, rather than waiving him for minimal salary cap savings.