Lance Stephenson: Signs with Hornets

Stephenson signed a three-year, $27 million contract with the Hornets on Wednesday, ESPN reports. The contract includes a team option for the final season.

Analysis:

Stephenson reportedly turned down a five-year, $44 million contract offer from the Pacers when free agency opened, figuring he could get a bigger deal from another team. Despite leading the NBA in triple-doubles last season, not to mention setting career-highs in points, rebounds and assists per game, Stephenson will have to settle for a shorter deal with more money per season. His on-court antics may have played a role in the reduced market for his services, but he's still only 23 years old and figures to get plenty of playing time in Charlotte.