Charlotte Hornets Round Table Discussion: MKG’s Return?

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Dec 23, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Injured Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) warms up before the game against the Boston Celtics at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Injured Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) warms up before the game against the Boston Celtics at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Is Michael Kidd-Gilchrist’s impact on the Charlotte Hornets enough for the team to turn their struggles around and make the playoffs?

Jerry Stephens: I think that the return of MKG (and hopefully Al Jefferson) will push the team to the next level and allow them to play better basketball as a whole. Kidd-Gilchrist is a lockdown defender that is top-10 in the NBA, he can drive the lane, and he has an improved jump shot that will help. 

Connor Penegar: Yes. The Hornets will make the playoffs with MKG in the side. Not only is he a great individual defender and locks down the best opposing player, MKG’s defensive enthusiasm is infectious for the whole team. The players on the floor will see how hard MKG is going after his assignment and be motivated to try even harder on their man. Defense has been an issue that has plagued the Hornets without MKG, and with him coming back, I see the Hornets getting back on track defensively.

DeShawn White: Defensively, Kidd-Gilchrist is a game-changer. Offensively, he does enough passing and driving to warrant attention. Paired with a talented two-way player in Batum, the defense should instantly improve and turn into offensive scores for the team. Add in the huge improvement of Walker, the intelligence of Williams and the improvement of the team as a whole, and the only thing really holding the team back is injuries. So, I see his return as an instant improvement and a kickstart to the playoffs.

Next: MKG's Biggest Impact?