Hornets star 'shooting for MVP' after signing max extension

With the extension secured, Ball said he has big plans.

"I'm shooting for first team [NBA]. MVP too. I'm shooting for 'em all," he said. "The main thing is winning though."

Over his first three seasons in the NBA, Ball has shown the potential to reach those goals. His points and assists per game have risen each year in the league and he already holds the team record for triple-doubles. 

With the face of the franchise now locked down and Brandon Miller, the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft developing in the Summer League, Charlotte has reasons for optimism. But can the Hornets surpass last season's win total (27)? That depends on how many games Ball plays. 

Last season Ball played in just 36 games before suffering a fractured right ankle in a February game against the Detroit Pistons. This injury occurred after his season debut was delayed by a left ankle sprain suffered in a preseason game.

He wasn't the only key contributor to miss significant time, however, as veteran Gordon Hayward missed 32 games with injuries. Budding star Miles Bridges missed the entire 2022-23 season after his arrest for domestic violence days before he was expected to sign a massive contract extension of his own. 

After pleading no contest in November, the NBA suspended Bridges 30 games. He's expected to play for Charlottethis season. 

If Bridges, Ball and Miller stay healthy and perform to their potential, they could be a solid foundation for a Hornets franchise hoping to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2016.