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Charlotte Hornets: Where Each Starter Can Improve

By Jerry Stephens

Dec 26, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford talks with guard Nicolas Batum (5) and guard Kemba Walker (15) during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets defeated the Grizzlies 98-92. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford talks with guard Nicolas Batum (5) and guard Kemba Walker (15) during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets defeated the Grizzlies 98-92. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 17, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) looks to pass the ball as Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) defends during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) looks to pass the ball as Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) defends during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

SG: Nicolas Batum – Limiting Turnovers

Age: 27

2015-16 Averages: 14.9 PPG, 5.8 APG, 6.1 RPG, 0.9 SPG, 2.9 TOV, 35 MPG

2015-16 Shooting Stats: 42.6% FG, 34.8% 3FG, 84.9% FT

Nicolas Batum was basically thrown into the fire last season as he was adjusting to a new system with the Hornets and coach Clifford. He was forced to become the secondary ball-handler which meant that he had the added responsibly of not only scoring more but also becoming a better facilitator for the team. Nic wanted the bigger role for the team and while he did have a great year, his turnover woes haunted him all year.

Batum led the team in turnovers per game with 2.9 a game as he struggled with his ball handling and passing at times. Nic had a great season and played well in his expanded role but after signing a five-year, $120 million contact this offseason, he will need to prove that he is worth every penny and cut down on the turnovers.

The 6’8 Frenchman is capable of becoming one of the best creators at the shooting guard position in the league but not if he continues to turn the ball over at such a high rate. After a year with the Charlotte Hornets under his belt, Batum should be more comfortable in Steve Clifford’s system this season.

I fully expect him to limit his turnovers and become even better at creating for his teammates this year. Nic is an all-around player for the team as he defends, scores, rebounds, and facilitates. He should have better season in 2016 as he is more familiar with the team and with his role.

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