Hornets Sign Big Man To 3-Year Extension


The Charlotte Hornets have extended a key member of their core going forward, signing a three-year, $15M contract extension with third-year center Nick Richards. 

Richards was the 42nd overall pick (second round) in the 2020 NBA Draft out of Kentucky. He's averaging a career-best 7.9 points, and 6.1 rebounds in 18 minutes a game in his 3rd season with the Bugs.

His performance of late is even better, averaging 9.4 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in his past five games. His rim protection has been elite.

As noted by NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Richards has been a "player development revelation" under Charlotte head coach Steve Clifford.

The 25-year-old would have become a restricted free agent this summer, but the Hornets have now locked him up.

Photo: David Yeazell-USA TODAY Sports