After six games, the Hornets sit at 2-4 to begin the season. However, their record doesn’t indicate the skill this team possesses.
In the first three games, the resulting losses came from 2015 Eastern Conference Playoff teams. And even though they were losses, two of three were decided in the last two minutes.
The Hornets would then win two games in convincing fashion against the Chicago Bulls and Dallas Mavericks before falling against the powerhouse Spurs. It really was a competitive game going into the half, but San Antonio would put on such a show in the third quarter that Hornets couldn’t overcome. Still, Charlotte sits in a position that could be considered obvious, and certain players have been the key to the success that the team has achieved.
Here is my opinion on the role players that could spell success for the “New-Look Hornets”.
1st: Jeremy Lamb
Nov 1, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lamb (3) shoots the ball over Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) during the first half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
The player with the newest contract happens to be one of the players with the most promise. Jeremy Lamb has so far been a key rotation player for the Hornets. Prior to the Spurs game, Lamb averaged around 14 points on 60% shooting from the floor and 50% from behind the arc. Blending a brand of shooting, sneaky defense and underrated rebounding, Lamb has been a pleasant surprise for the deserving Charlotte franchise. Known as a shooter, he has also flashed small amounts of penetration ability with also a surprisingly good couple of passes sprinkled in. This could be the year that he gets the time and patience to truly become a dependable wing in the NBA, and he should be look to bounce back against the Timberwolves and Knicks.
In San Antonio, the stat line was unimpressive, going 2-8 for four points and four rebounds in San Antonio. He was 0-2 on free throws and 0-3 from behind the arc in his worst offensive game playing for the Hornets. This honestly should’ve been a tough game for Lamb. Having to play against Ginobli as well as the Spurs would be tough for any young guard, and the skill and veteran knowledge completely took him out of the game. If the Hornets want to make a difference this year, then the play of Lamb will have to improve and stay constant. It was only one bad game, but lots of promise still gives Lamb a chance to succeed and improve.
2nd: Jeremy Lin
Nov 7, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; Charlotte Hornets point guard Jeremy Lin (7) smiles to the crowd during the first half against the San Antonio Spurs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
“The Dragon” was and remains a dynamic playmaker in today’s NBA. For the Hornets, Lin is a playmaking combo guard who brings creativity, slashing, passing, energy and many other aspects off the bench. His amazing skill is such a tough matchup for opposing players that it’s almost impossible to plan for. If his shot isn’t falling then he drives and kicks the ball out, creating looks for his teammates. Also, his offense and defense has improved to the point that he’s more of a challenge than a liability. Lin has played so well that he, as well as Lamb, have often been in conversation amongst fans to be considered in the starting line-up.
3rd: Spencer Hawes
Oct 28, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Spencer Hawes (00) is pressured by Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh (1) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
After a failed experiment in Los Angeles, Spencer Hawes has found a new home in North Carolina. Slotting in behind Al Jefferson as the team’s back-up center, Spencer Hawes has played a small but needed role. Coming in with the ability to shoot the three ball was an added dimension, but coming in and facilitating the ball was a special trait. Most of Charlotte’s big men have been more offensive based players who were more focused on scoring than helping other teammates score. Yet, the 8 year veteran has provided skills reminiscent of Josh McRoberts (not at his level of course). His shooting as well as passing from anywhere on the floor has caused many issues and problems for teams. I personally hope that Charlotte would utilize his passing more and completely neutralize his ball-handling duties.
Next: Big Al is the Hornets Best Offensive Option
Well that covers it, remember to comment below to share your thoughts. Add us on Twitter for comments, questions, live-tweeting during games, concerns or if I missed anything. As always, KEEP SWARMING.