Hornets Announce Multiyear Extension For Terry Rozier

The Hornets have officially announced the multiyear contract extension for guard Terry Rozier, via a release from the team.

“In his two seasons with the Hornets, Terry Rozier has been an instrumental part of our team,” general manager Mitch Kupchak said in the release. “Terry is a highly competitive, tough and talented player that has continually improved all aspects of his game.

“He has provided leadership and an infectious work ethic that has been a tremendous benefit to our younger players. Terry is an important member of our young, talented team and we are thrilled to have him as a member of the Hornets organization for years to come.

Rozier agreed to a four-year contract extension, agent Aaron Carter told Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Rozier, 27, is 6-foot-1 and averaged 20.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 69 games last season. He is product of Shaker Heights, Ohio. Carter is from nearby Orange.

“Ever since I got to Charlotte, the fans and the organization have embraced me,” Rozier said in the statement. “I am excited to remain with the Hornets for the long term and I can’t wait to see what my teammates, coaches, the organization and I can accomplish in the coming years. 

“I am grateful for the trust everyone has put in me and I cannot wait to get back to work for this upcoming season.”

The extension will lock up Rozier through the 2025-26 season, is guaranteed and for the maximum amount, making him among the NBA’s highest-paid guards, as Charania noted.

“That means it’ll start at about $21.49MM in 2022/23 (120% of Rozier’s $17.91MM salary for ’20/21) and will be worth approximately $96.26MM over four years,” noted Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors.

Rozier was acquired by the Hornets as part of the Kemba Walker trade to the Celtics ahead of the 2019 season. The Celtics have lost Walker and Kyrie Irving in recent seasons, and could probably use Rozier right about now.

Charlotte is happy to have him, as Rozier is a reliable and occasionally dynamic starter alongside LaMelo Ball, with newcomers Ish Smith and rookie James Bouknight filling out an underrated backcourt.