Charlotte Hornets 2017-2018 starting lineup

SF: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Age: 23 (9/26/1993)
2016-2017 Shooting Stats: 47.7% FG/ 11.1% 3P/ 78.4% FT
2016-2017 Averages: 9.2 PPG, 1.4 APG, 7.0 RPG, 29.0 MPG
Accomplishments: All-Rookie Second Team (2012-13)

After a short but promising 2015-16 season, Kidd-Gilchrist seemed to regress a bit last year. His scoring and shooting numbers were down and his three-point shot showed no improvement. Despite his offensive struggles, Michael was great on the defensive end saving the third most points in the NBA behind only Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

While MKG remains one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, he won’t take the next step in his development until he can consistently knock down outside shots. There is no reason to believe his shooting number will change next season but the five-year veteran is still only 23 which means he is young enough to still figure things out.

I wouldn’t be surprised if MKG is relegated to the bench either mid-season or next year to make way for first round pick Malik Monk. Despite what may happen later on, MKG will start at small forward to begin the 2017-18 season. He started 81 matches last season missing only one game. Steve Clifford puts a lot of value in his ability to lock down the opponent’s best player one on one and that is a big reason as to why he will start at small forward.