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Hornets Take Risky Gamble in Free Agency by Letting Tre Mann Walk

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 8:20 PM ET

Just one day after making headlines by acquiring Collin Sexton in a savvy trade with Utah, the Charlotte Hornets followed up with a baffling move that has fans and analysts scratching their heads: the team has declined to tender guard Tre Mann his $6.94 million qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent.

For a franchise starved of consistent scoring and backcourt depth, the decision feels counterintuitive. In just 13 games last season with Charlotte, Mann averaged 14.1 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 24.5 minutes per game, while shooting a blistering 40% from three. Despite a small sample size due to a herniated disc, his offensive spark was undeniable.

Letting Mann test unrestricted free agency, without even securing the rights to match other offers means the Hornets have effectively removed themselves from the table. And for what gain?

The rationale could lie in the recent Sexton trade. Like Mann, Sexton is a dynamic scorer with a similar profile, but more experience. Perhaps the front office sees redundancy. Yet, Mann’s upside at just 23, coupled with his affordability, offered low-risk, high-reward potential. And in today’s cap-climbing NBA, $6.94 million is hardly breaking the bank.

Another likely factor? Cap management. With $109 million committed to players like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Grant Williams, and Josh Green, the Hornets may simply be prioritizing financial flexibility. But at what cost?

Charlotte’s decision isn’t irreversible, as Mann could still re-sign. But unrestricted free agency opens the floodgates. Teams needing a scoring punch off the bench, and there are many, now have a clear lane.

For a franchise desperate to climb out of mediocrity, losing a promising guard for nothing may prove to be a step backward when every inch forward counts.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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