Picture this: The Charlotte Hornets have just scooped up the reigning king of college scoring from the 2024-25 season, but he's staring down a steep climb just to secure a spot on their NBA roster. It's a tale of high hopes and harsh realities in the world of professional basketball, and trust me, you won't want to look away as we dive into the details.
As the preseason heats up, the Hornets have officially brought aboard free agent Eric Dixon, the former Villanova forward who dominated as a three-time All-Big East selection. According to the team's PR account on X, Dixon is now under contract, though the specifics remain under wraps. It's widely believed this deal includes Exhibit 10 language, which is a special provision in NBA agreements that allows teams to sign players without using up their standard roster spots—think of it as a trial run to see if they fit.
For context, Dixon was ranked as the No. 44 prospect on ESPN's pre-draft big board, and he initially caught the eye of the Los Angeles Lakers, who signed him to what was anticipated as a two-way deal. But here's where it gets controversial: Injuries can derail even the brightest prospects, and Dixon battled a foot issue over the summer that downgraded his contract to a mere Exhibit 10 training camp agreement. Ultimately, the Lakers cut him loose, as reported by sources like ESPN's Dave McMenamin and The Athletic's Law Murray. Is this a case of teams being too quick to abandon talent due to setbacks, or a smart business move to protect resources? It's a debate that rages in basketball circles—after all, we've seen players like Buddy Hield bounce back from early cuts to become stars.
Now, the Hornets see potential in Dixon, but the path forward isn't straightforward. Their three Exhibit 10 slots are already filled, so Dixon can't immediately convert to a two-way contract, which lets players split time between the NBA and the G League while earning a mix of salaries. In theory, he could climb to the full 15-man roster from there, but for now, he might need to start in the minors. If waived before the season kicks off, Dixon could join the Greensboro Swarm, the Hornets' G League affiliate. And this is the part most people miss: Sticking with the Swarm for at least 60 days could earn him a bonus of up to $85,300, providing a financial incentive to prove himself.
Dixon's journey to this point is inspiring. He sat out his freshman year in 2019-20 as a redshirt, giving him extra time to develop, and he truly exploded in his senior campaign. As an Associated Press and NABC All-American Third Teamer, he led the nation with an average of 23.3 points per game for the Wildcats, shooting a solid .451 from the field, .407 from three, and .813 from the free-throw line. He also contributed 5.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 0.8 steals per contest, showcasing his all-around game.
In related news, the Hornets recently parted ways with another notable name, the son of a Hall of Famer, highlighting how roster decisions can be tough and unpredictable. And speaking of the Lakers missing out, check out this story about the NCAA's top scorer opting for an Eastern Conference team instead.
What do you think—does Dixon have what it takes to overcome these hurdles and make the Hornets' roster, or is this just another cautionary tale of college stars struggling in the pros? Should NBA teams be more patient with injured prospects, or is it fair to cut ties when health issues arise? Share your opinions in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have a counterpoint to add to the conversation!
