LAS VEGAS — When the Warriors opted to give Nick Young their full mid-level exception last summer, it had a potentially costly long-term side affect: Jordan Bell, their just drafted second-round rookie, could only sign a two-year deal, not a three-year pact, giving him an early route to restricted free agency.



That’s terrific for Bell, who wildly outperformed his minuscule $815,000 salary in his rookie season and will only make $1.3 million next season as he steps into an even bigger role. If he performs, Bell will put himself in position for a payday next summer, at 24, instead of a third straight season making below his value.



“It can be good or bad,” Bell told The Athletic this week. “It’s kind of like betting on yourself. Some people, if you have a longer contract right away, four years (like all first-rounders), you have a longer time to develop. Two-year contract, you gotta perform both years if you want your money in...