Charlotte Hornets star forward Miles Bridges has not played for the organization since the 2021-22 season. However, it looks like he will return to the court next season after signing a qualifying offer for the upcoming 2023-2024 season on Sunday.
Bridges was once seen as a big part of the Hornets’ future, averaging 20.2 points per game to go along with 7.0 rebounds the last time we saw him. A felony domestic violence arrest last May that led to his absence on the court last season has since put his future in jeopardy.
This off-court incident has led to contract extension talks stalling between Bridges and the Hornets organization. He hasn’t gotten the big extension that he wants just yet, but he did ultimately sign a $7.9 million qualifying offer for the 2023-2024 season, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
ESPN Sources: Charlotte Hornets restricted free agent F Miles Bridges is preparing to sign a $7.9 million qualifying offer for the 2023-2024 season, clearing the way for him to become unrestricted next summer. Hornets and Bridges are far apart in extension talks. Story soon. pic.twitter.com/1uf2uh3uxQ
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2023
Bridges is set to miss the first ten games of the season due to a suspension by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver that has still not been served. Regardless, it seems like he is very excited to be returning to the court soon, taking to social media on Sunday after signing his deal with the Hornets.
“Blessed to be back with the squad, let’s make some noise,” tweeted Bridges.
Blessed to be back with the squad 🙏🏽 let’s make some noise!!
— Miles Bridges (@MilesBridges) July 2, 2023
This move by Bridges also sets him up for a potential big payday in free agency next season if he can prove to teams next season that he can both be trusted off the court, and that he is the same player that he once was on the court.
