3 Tough offseason decisions the Charlotte Hornets will be forced to make

#2 Where to draw the line in PJ Washington’s RFA?

Assuming the Charlotte Hornets extend PJ Washington the $8.4 million qualifying offer he’s entitled to, he will become a restricted free agent this summer. There should be no doubt that Mitch Kupchak ensures the Hornets retain some form of control over one of their best young assets, so the qualifying offer is basically a foregone conclusion.

However, it’s what happens when restricted free agency begins that is the real question. The Hornets will certainly have a number in mind and will likely draw a line in the sand so as not to be caught in a bidding war and risk overpaying.

This season, Washington proved to be a valuable member of the Hornets’ rotation, showing that he was capable of handling an increased workload without too much of a drop-off in terms of efficiency on the court.

In 73 games for Charlotte, Washington produced averages of 15.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while shooting 51.8% from two-point range and 34.8% from deep. As such, it would make sense that multiple teams will likely be sniffing around the former lottery pick in the hopes of raising him away from the Hornets in the offseason.