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The Bounce Newsletter | This is The Athletic’s daily NBA newsletter. Sign up here to have The Bounce delivered straight to your inbox.
While it’s tough to see him leave, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Shams Charania for his contributions here at The Athletic and for his excellent collaboration on The Bounce. ESPN has indeed secured a talented individual in him.
Rookie Extension Watch
Five fourth-year players who could receive 💰💰💰
As free agency kicked off early in the offseason, discussions quickly arose about four players eligible for extensions off their rookie-scale contracts, signaling substantial paydays ahead. First-round selections from the 2021 NBA Draft can eligible for these extensions before the start of the 2024-25 season. Cade Cunningham (Detroit), Evan Mobley (Cleveland), Scottie Barnes (Toronto), and Franz Wagner (Orlando) are all reported to have received max extensions of five years and $224 million.
Who else should we monitor as the season approaches? Here are five captivating players to keep an eye on.
Jalen Green, Houston Rockets: The second overall pick in 2021 found himself on the trade block before the February 2024 deadline. The Rockets attempted to trade him, along with several picks, to the Nets for Mikal Bridges, but the trade did not materialize. At that point, extending his contract in Houston didn’t seem likely. It appeared he might re-sign as a restricted free agent in 2025 or possibly receive an offer sheet for the team to match. However, Green (22 years old) began to elevate his game:
- First 59 games: 17.9 points with shooting splits of 40.4/31.2/80.8, plus 4.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists. Houston recorded a 25-34 record.
- Final 23 games: 24 points with shooting splits of 46.1/37.0/79.4, alongside six rebounds and 4.1 assists. Houston improved to 16-7, finishing the season at 41-41.
- Alperen Şeng“`html
Alperen Şengün, Houston Rockets: The Rockets likely won’t part ways with Şengün. He was borderline All-Star caliber throughout most of the season before his injury in March. Şengün is a powerhouse on the court; while his defense needs improvement and his outside shooting is still developing, he recorded impressive averages of 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and five assists last season. The offense revolves around him in a way reminiscent of middle-management Jokić, which is high praise. Moving forward, Şengün appears to be either a franchise player or, at the very least, a solid No. 2 option. I suspect they will offer him a maximum contract.
Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans: Murphy faced some time on the sidelines—20 games as a rookie and 23 last season—but he has proven to be a dynamic wing that the Pelicans are likely to retain. His shooting ability stands out, having achieved a career 3-point shooting percentage of 39.2. Aside from his shooting, he has decent ball-handling skills, athleticism, and contributes defensively thanks to his versatility. He is poised to play a significant role for the team. However, the Pelicans have a crowded perimeter lineup, which means that one player may need to be traded.
Hypothetically, Brandon Ingram could be the one leaving in exchange for a big man. With Murphy alongside Herb Jones and Dejounte Murray, a healthy Zion Williamson could cause considerable chaos on the court. Another concern is determining Murphy’s monetary value; he could command a hefty contract in restricted free agency. Perhaps the Pelicans are hopeful he signs for a deal similar to what Jones received (four years for $53.8 million).
Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors: For reasons unknown, coach Steve Kerr has been reluctant to fully utilize the 22-year-old Kuminga. This was a prominent discussion point for the Warriors last season, and it seems uncertainty continues for both the starting lineup and Kuminga’s role this year. Given this ambiguity, I predict that Golden State can only secure an extension if Kuminga opts for a lower salary, around $15 million annually for a four-year contract. However, I also anticipate that Kuminga will choose to bet on himself and seek a more lucrative contract next summer. Aggregators, please note that these are estimations, not definitive reports.
Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic: Determining Suggs’ market value is challenging due to his unpredictable performance. The 23-year-old has yet to establish himself as a consistent playmaker or scorer, although he has shown improvement—up from 10.8 points on 48.7 percent true shooting in his first two seasons to 12.6 points on 60.2 percent true shooting last season. His true value lies in his defensive prowess. He likely seeks more than the four-year, $37 million contract that Alex Caruso signed in 2021, but that may be the going rate if Suggs does not have another standout shooting season?
Sink or Sail
Did Kawhi inadvertently criticize the Clippers?
I must admit, I’m uncertain about the LA Clippers as they head into this season. You may recall that Paul George departed for Philadelphia this past summer, with the Clippers citing the new second-apron luxury tax penalty as a reason for not retaining PG. They have attempted to fill the gap by signing Kevin Porter Jr., Nicolas Batum, Derrick Jones Jr., and Kris Dunn (a guard known for his defense). There are“`html
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) October 8, 2024
Tyronn Lue shared insights regarding his decision to start Kris Dunn on Saturday, while stating that Terance Mann will take the start against the Nets.
As Kawhi Leonard is listed as week-to-week, this opens a spot for either Dunn or Mann. pic.twitter.com/5hWKfWHqxr
— Law Murray 🏟️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) October 7, 2024
The encouraging news is that Leonard mentioned on Saturday that he feels good regarding his health and is making progress towards returning to the court. That’s reassuring for Clippers fans. However, what you really don’t want to hear is his comments about the new players’ performance:
“The focus is on the new guys. Observing the new additions like Kris Dunn and Derrick Jones Jr., we’ve brought in a lot of young talent. There’s also Kai Jones from last year. Watching their development from Day 1 to Day 2 to Day 3 has been insightful.But honestly, no one has stood out to me yet.”
This isn’t exactly promising. Fans had a bit of fun with this remark, hoping that he would highlight the potential of his new teammates. But true to Kawhi’s character, he didn’t. It immediately brought to mind a tale about Kawhi being advised by a coach not to switch off a scorer during a game. When he inquired as to why, the coach explained that his teammate wasn’t a strong defender, prompting Kawhi to question why that player was on the floor if he couldn’t guard well. It’s so characteristic of Kawhi.
When Leonard is healthy, the situation with the Clippers feels more stable. However, this sentiment has been echoed in previous seasons he played in Los Angeles. His presence makes a difference, especially with Harden managing the plays. This way, Jones, Porter, or Batum could reliably step in for George. Instead, they are left to make do with players who have yet to impress Kawhi. Perhaps they will rise to the occasion, but even making it to the Play-In Tournament could be a long shot. Yikes!
Poster SZN!
Spurs rookie Stephon Castle made a significant impression
Here at The Bounce, we’re all about witnessing spectacular dunks. The name “The Bounce” captures various meanings, including players soaring high to dunk over defenders who are attempting to shine. Last night marked our inaugural poster dunk (or TikTok dunk? Viral dunk?) of the 2024 preseason: San Antonio Spurs rookie and No. 4 draft pick Stephon Castle seized the moment against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and he truly made it
He completed the play through contact to the left shoulder, reached back with his right hand, and executed an impressive dunk. The highlight came when the camera cut to the Spurs bench, revealing Keldon Johnson experiencing a moment of sheer ecstasy as he attempted to rein in his excited teammates.
No wonder the Spurs have such an affinity for Castle, and I’m not referring to the Nathan Fillion series.
Bounce Passes
The “No Dunks” team excels at what they do best: nail the over/unders for every team.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope shared with David Aldridge why he made the decision to sign with Orlando.
Charles Lee is undertaking a daunting task: attempting to forge a successful culture in Charlotte.
Most-clicked in Monday’s newsletter: Our audience particularly enjoys bold NBA predictions!
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(Top photo: Tim Warner / Getty Images )
Rookie Extension Watch: Who’s Cashing In Before the NBA Season?
Overview of Rookie Extensions
As the NBA season approaches, many young stars are solidifying their futures by signing lucrative rookie extensions. These contracts not only reward players for their on-court performance but also secure the financial stability of teams looking to build around their emerging talents. This article delves into the key players who have signed rookie extensions ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season, analyzing their contracts, impact, and the benefits these extensions provide for both players and teams.
Key Players Who Signed Extensions
Several standout players have made headlines by signing rookie extensions before the season kicked off. Here are some of the most notable names:
- LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets)
- Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball, the electrifying point guard of the Charlotte Hornets, signed a significant extension after an impressive rookie season and a strong performance in subsequent years. Ball’s ability to create plays and score makes him a foundational piece for the Hornets.
Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards has quickly established himself as a star in the league. His dynamic scoring ability and athleticism have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. The extension solidifies his role as a key player in the Timberwolves’ future.
Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton has been a revelation since entering the league. His versatility and playmaking skills have made him an essential asset for the Indiana Pacers. By signing a rookie extension, Haliburton is set to continue his development in a franchise that believes in his potential.
Benefits of Rookie Extensions
Signing a rookie extension can offer various advantages for both players and teams. Here are some key benefits:
For Players
- Financial Security: Rookie extensions provide players with substantial financial rewards, ensuring their economic stability as their careers progress.
- Team Commitment: A contract extension signifies that the team is invested in the player’s development and future, which can enhance a player’s confidence.
- Long-Term Planning: Securing an extension allows players to focus on their game without the distractions of contract negotiations in the following seasons.
For Teams
- Building Around Talent: Teams can strategically plan their rosters around young stars, creating a cohesive unit aimed at competing in the playoffs.
- Cost Control: Rookie extensions can often be more financially manageable compared to free agency signings, allowing teams to allocate their salary cap effectively.
- Enhanced Team Culture: Committing to young players fosters a positive culture within the organization, encouraging other players to follow suit in their development.
Player Performance and Impact
Evaluating the performance of these players is crucial to understanding the impact of their extensions. Below is a brief analysis of each player’s contributions and potential.
| Player | 2022-23 Points Per Game | 2022-23 Assists Per Game | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| LaMelo Ball | 24.5 | 8.0 | Key playmaker, elevates team performance |
| Anthony Edwards | 23.8 | 5.5 | Primary scorer, defensive strength |
| Tyrese Haliburton | 20.5 | 10.3 | Versatile contributor, facilitates ball movement |
Future Prospects for Rookie Extension Players
The players who signed rookie extensions are poised to become the faces of their franchises. Their performances will be critical as teams strive for success in the upcoming seasons. Here’s a look at what lies ahead for each player:
LaMelo Ball
As LaMelo continues to develop his all-around game, the Hornets expect him to take on a leadership role. His ability to create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates will be pivotal as they aim for playoff contention.
Anthony Edwards
Edwards is primed for a breakout season. With the Timberwolves investing in his future, fans can anticipate a more refined game that leverages his athleticism while enhancing his shooting consistency.
Tyrese Haliburton
Haliburton’s playmaking will be crucial for the Pacers. As he continues to evolve, his ability to orchestrate the offense and facilitate scoring will be central to the team’s success in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Practical Tips for Teams Considering Rookie Extensions
For NBA franchises contemplating rookie extensions, here are some practical tips:
- Evaluate Player Development: Assess the player’s growth and their potential to improve further. Commit to extensions when the player shows consistent progress.
- Consider Team Needs: Ensure that the player fits within the team’s future plans and that their skill set aligns with the desired style of play.
- Engage in Open Communication: Maintain transparent discussions with players regarding their roles and the team’s vision to foster trust and commitment.
Case Studies: Successful Rookie Extensions
Analyzing past rookie extensions can provide valuable insights into their impact on teams and players. Here are a couple of notable examples:
Case Study 1: Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić’s rookie extension with the Dallas Mavericks has proven to be a game-changer for the franchise. His remarkable skill set combined with the Mavs’ support has positioned them as contenders in the Western Conference.
Case Study 2: Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum signed a rookie extension with the Boston Celtics that has paid dividends. His evolution into a superstar has helped the Celtics remain competitive, illustrating the importance of committing to young talent.
Conclusion
As the NBA season approaches, the rookie extensions signed by LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, and Tyrese Haliburton indicate a promising future for these players and their respective teams. These contracts not only reward young talent for their contributions but also set the stage for competitive basketball in the coming years. The strategic implications of these extensions will be felt throughout the league as teams look to build around their stars.
