Pick One: Miles Bridges or P.J. Washington?
The Charlotte Hornets have some difficult decisions to make this summer, including what to do with restricted free agents Miles Bridges and P.J. Washington.
In the scenario that the Hornets can only keep one of the two moving into the future, which one should they retain? Here's who our staff thinks the Hornets should keep:
Schuyler Callihan: P.J. Washington
Look, Miles Bridges is a really good player but this isn't a perennial All-Star we're talking about here. He had a good season in 2021-22 but that's ONE really good year. Is that who he will always be? I don't know, especially now that he's been away from the game for a year. Plus, it's not like his off the court deal was something minor. I think it's in the best interest of both parties to start anew and for the Hornets, bring back a guy like P.J. who can offer more versatility defensively.
Desmond Johnson: Miles Bridges
Yes, I know he had off court trouble. It appears he's putting it behind him and trying to move forward. Bridges is a homegrown drafted talent that has blossomed into a potential All-Star down the road. We don't see many of those here. Plus, PJ is one of multiple guys Charlotte has drafted in the PF 6'9"-6'11" range that all do similar things. Personally, I'd like to see more of Kai Jones who is still super young but has shown more and more bright spots each season. A contender would love a player like Washington in their rotation. Do a sign and trade with him for assets or veterans to anchor this young Hornets squad.
Austin Leake: Miles Bridges
To me this answer is pretty easy. Miles Bridges is an athletic player that can score in many different ways and has a special fit with LaMelo Ball. He led the team in scoring a season ago and is the Hornets only threat to attack the basket efficiently. PJ is a great player, but he’s not Miles Bridges and if there has to be a decision between the two, it should be Miles Bridges.
Eric Barnes: Miles Bridges
When you draft someone in the lottery and they hit, the goal is to keep them in the building. It is well-documented that his game and LaMelo’s compliment each other very nicely. With the addition of Brandon Miller, Bridges’ skillet is more important to the Hornets than ever. Considering both Miller and LaMelo struggle with converting on attempts around the rim Bridges adds an element to the offense that is a clear need for this team as it stands now. The Hornets need to bring Bridges back to keep the continuity of this young core going moving forward.
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