For the Charlotte Hornets, a lot of what goes in to improving their win-loss record next season is going to come down to health. Fans are sick of talking about it, but if this team can just find themselves with a clean injury report for an extended stretch, they'll finally be able to reach their potential. With that being said, there is one very important move the Hornets should make sure they knock out right away this summer — Hashing out a contract extension for Tre Mann.
Hornets fans knew shortly after Mann arrived in Charlotte back in February 2024 that they had a special player on their hands. But after a proper offseason in the Queen City, that realization became even clearer.
Though it was ultimately cut short by injuries, the 2024-25 season was easily the most impressive of Mann's still young career. He came out of the gate firing on all cylinders, putting up three 20-point outings in his first five games. It wasn't long before his name was starting to be mentioned in early discussions for the Sixth Man of the Year and Most Improved Player awards.
As we know, an injury to a disc in Mann's back forced him to the sideline for the remainder of the season after November 21. But what he did prior to his injury should be enough for the Hornets to be working on extending Tre with swiftness.
The kind of offensive talent Tre Mann possesses doesn't simply grow on trees. He's a constant threat both on and off-ball, and his ability to break down defenses unquestionably made the Hornets harder to play against earlier in the season.
The Hornets need to lock down an extension for Tre Mann
We saw Mann dice up defenders each time he stepped on the floor last October and November. He's a lethal catch-and-shoot threat, but his real money maker is taking defenders off the dribble and slashing through the lane for easier scoring or playmaking opportunities.
Having this kind of player to bring off your bench is a huge luxury. And not only was Tre's play extremely impactful for Charlotte last season, it was also highly sustainable. He can and will continue to be a difference-maker should he be back in the Purple and Teal again next season.
Of course, the biggest concern most are going to have with Mann is with his health. Back injuries can be tricky. But even though the Hornets have the right to proceed with some caution, they should recognize that the benefits far outweigh the risks in this situation.
Charlotte has sometimes struggled to develop young talent in recent years, and getting an extension worked out for a player like Tre Mann would give them some stability. Given the flashes we've already seen from him, it's not hard to envision a career season from number 23 in 2025-26.
And even beyond the on-court factors, Mann has rightly become a fan favorite in Charlotte in short order. His outfits reminiscent of Allen Iverson and his public support of the franchise have earned him some major points from the Hornets' fanbase. That type of loyalty and charisma matters, and bringing him back would only further establish the kind of cultural connection needed between this team and the city.