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Charlotte Hornets: Surprise Surprise to Start the Preseason

By De White

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Who would’ve thought that the Charlotte Hornets could be undefeated in preseason? Even if it’s just two wins, who thought the Hornets could take down the Magic AND Heat in one weekend?

Before I continue, we all know of the heartbreak, injury, and expected recovery time of MKG. It sucks tremendously and he will be missed.

Mar 20, 2015; Sacramento, CA, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) with a hand on the ground as he controls a dribble against the Sacramento Kings during the first quarter at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Now, in the small sample size that we’ve been given, plenty of positives can be taken away from the improvements that the Charlotte has made. First, the new players… The newer players have stepped in and made a difference from the start. Batum, Lin, Lamb, Kaminsky, and Hansbrough have all shown the damage that they could inflict, and it is glorious.

First, I’ll start with Hansbrough who came to Charlotte doubted by everyone. What can you say about his Hornet debut? He only managed 4 points in his one game played, but dominated the boards with 17 rebounds in the same night. Impressive for a reserve on any team. Proving his worth and reason for being here.

Next up, Frank “The Tank” Kaminsky. With a combined 16 points (five 3’s), 3 assists, and 15 rebounds in two games with limited minutes, Kaminsky is quickly showing his worth as a 9th overall pick. Giving everyone consideration into whether he’ll have the chance to start, our rookie has earned himself a chance at more playing time moving forward.

Next is my personal favorite, Jeremy Lamb. With a combined 24 points (two 3’s), 2 assists, and 7 rebounds, Lamb has somewhat impressed with his opportunities so far. Being thrust into the starting lineup due to injury has given him the chance to improve and test his skill. Only hiccup was that his test came against one of the more dynamic two Guards in the NBA, courtesy of D.Wade. Definitely a player to watch.

The next player is Jeremy Lin, Linsanity has seemed to make an impact already. Combining for 27 points (two 3’s), 2 assists, and 5 rebounds, Lin has been a welcome spark coming off the bench. Carving up defenses with ease and skill, he has seemed to take over parts of games at times. A very welcomed addition to a team that lacked firepower off the bench last season.

Last but certainly not least, Nicolas Batum. With 14 points (one 3) 3 assists, and 6 rebounds, Batum has undoubtedly shown that he can be the exact player that the Hornets need on the wing. Smart, aggressive, tough, agile, creative, and able to spread the floor, Batum has been able to increase as well as add to the flow of the revamped Charlotte offense. Overall, the new Hornets have directly impacted and improved not only our offense, but our confidence and mentality as well.

Next up, our returning players. There have been many improvements this year, or atleast in the 2 games we’ve seen. In this part, I’ll be referring to Walker, P.J., Williams, Zeller, Jefferson, and Roberts.

First is Al Jefferson. With 4 points and 9 rebounds, Jefferson has looked more relaxed and energized. Even if he did only play limited minutes in one game, he looked incredibly comfortable in this offense. With more pressure off of him, and a more even offense, Jefferson looks to thrive and improve.

Next is Kemba Walker. With a combined 30 points (four 3’s), 10 assists, and 3 rebounds, Kemba is on the fast track to posting higher numbers and better percentages. Leading the team in points so far, keep an eye out for Kemba 2.0.

Next is Cody Zeller, with a combined 18 points (two 3’s), 3 assists, and 10 rebounds, Zeller has very much improved his range. Still very thin for a 7 foot PF/C mix, he has shown improvement enough to go head to Head with Frank Kaminsky for starter consideration.

Now, we talk about P.J. Hairston. With a combined 12 points (two 3’s) and 5 rebounds, P.J. has mostly improved on defense. He still struggles with his shot, and it has shown in the gamesmall played. Defensively, he has shown the ability and skill to defend at a good rate for a player that you’d want to take time to invest in. Just really wish his offense was at the level that we know it could be.

Next up is Marvin Williams. With a combined total of 13 points (three 3’s), 3 assists, and 5 rebounds, Marvin Williams continues to be the veteran presence at the forward position, and Marvin Williams still manages to show that he is a capable and talented player. He knows his role, strengths, and limitations, and has been a player that can thrive outside of the spotlight. DO NOT sleep on Marvin Williams.

Last is Brian Roberts. Man, let me just personally say that I’m sorry to Brian Roberts for writing multiple times that I would trade him. This man went off against Miami. 21 points (three 3’s), 3 assists, and 3 rebounds in his one game appearance… drops mic…

All in all, it’s been a very exciting few weeks to be a Hornet fan. The passing, shooting, and chemistry looks to be a major part of this young team. I’m personally excited to see more, including their trip to China. But what about you fans, what’s your favorite player, highlight, or statistic you would add? Now, why is that?

Thanks for reading, and drop comments below.

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