The Charlotte Hornets have agreed to a one-year, $3.6 million deal with free agent center Mason Plumlee, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Plumlee, 35, brings 12 years of NBA experience, having played for multiple teams including the Brooklyn Nets, Portland Trail Blazers, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, and most recently the Phoenix Suns. Last season with the Suns, he appeared in 74 games, averaging 6.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest.
Throughout his career, Plumlee has been known for efficient shooting near the basket, posting a career field goal percentage of nearly 60%.
His veteran presence and ability to defend the paint add value to a Hornets team that finished the 2024-25 season with a 19-63 record, placing last in the Eastern Conference.
Charlotte has struggled defensively this season, allowing 114.2 points per game while scoring just 105.1. The Hornets aim to improve their interior defense and rebounding with Plumlee’s addition.
While Plumlee’s role will likely be limited in minutes, his presence on the roster could support Charlotte’s rebuilding efforts by mentoring younger players and providing steady defense.
