Lance Stephenson has signed a three-year, $27 million deal to play for the Charlotte Hornets, according to ESPN. The deal includes a team option for the third season. The new contract ends Stephenson productive but somewhat tumultuous stay with the Indiana Pacers.
Stephenson and the Hornets came to agreement early Wednesday morning after Hornets owner Michael Jordan, general manager Rich Cho, head coach Steve Clifford and associate head coach Patrick Ewing met with Stephenson and his representatives Tuesday night in Las Vegas. The Hornets also were worried about Stephenson’s antics and attitude but satisfied that worry during the face-to-face meeting.
Stephenson turned down a five-year, $44 million contract from the Pacers on July 1st when free agency opened up. But Stephenson, who led the league in triple-doubles and was often the catalyst for the team’s success, felt undervalued by the Pacers. They refused to increase the offer.
According to sources the Dallas Mavericks had a two-year, $20 million offer on the table that Stephenson would have signed if the Houston Rockets matched Chandler Parsons offer sheet but they did not.
Stephenson averaged 13.8 points, 4.6 assists and 7.2 rebounds during his final season with the Pacers.
– Shaina Auxilly (@Shay_Marie)
