Buzz City Beat: Charlotte Hornets’ weaknesses, Xavier Munford helps USA take FIBA AmeriCup Title
Welcome to Buzz City Beat, a daily roundup of the best articles from around the internet surrounding the Charlotte Hornets.
All signs are pointing to Dwayne Wade being bought out by the Chicago Bulls before the start of the season. If he does, it will be interesting to see who lands him with the Cavs being the favorite. In this edition of Buzz City Beat, we look at the Charlotte Hornets‘ weaknesses, how Xavier Munford helped the USA win the FIBA AmeriCup Title and where Michael Kidd-Gilchrist ranks among NBA small forwards.
Charlotte Hornets’ weaknesses (RealSport101.com)
"Probably the biggest area for improvement is their lack of game-changing star power. While Walker has been outstanding in terms of continuing to improve his game over the past couple of years, he still has limitations as a true No. 1 option, and the team lacks comparable talent around him to compensate."
There were many times last season where Kemba Walker was the Hornets’ only source of offense. Rich Cho looked to improve the supporting cast this summer with the additions of Dwight Howard and Malik Monk. They are hoping that D12 and their first round pick can both average over 10+ points per game this year.
There’s also hope that some players can up their games and take the next step in their development to help take some of the scoring load off of Walker. The bench unit should be stronger this year meaning that when Kemba goes to the bench to rest, Charlotte’s lead shouldn’t disappear like it did many times in 2016-17.
Greensboro Swarm guard helps the USA defeat Argentina to win FIBA AmeriCup Title (ESPN991.com)
"The USA Men’s Basketball troupe stormed back from 20 points down to take the FIBA AmeriCup gold medal by defeating Argentina 81-76."
Xavier Munford played 30 games in the G-League with the Greensboro Swarm during the 2016-17 season where he averaged 18.5 points per game. He chose to sign with FC Barcelona Lassa of the EuroLeague before the end of the G-league season. The ex-Swarm point guard continued his scoring prowess in the FIBA tournament for the USA.
With NBA stars sitting out, the team was comprised of mostly G-league players. Munford averaged 10.2 points per game which ranked third highest on the team. The USA finished the AmeriCup going 5-0.
Where MKG ranks among NBA small forwards (HoopsHype.com)
"Limitations as a shooter aside, Kidd-Gilchrist is an elite defender of the highest order, and does well playing off-the-ball on offense when there’s enough shooting on the floor."
Next: Elfrid Payton praises Kemba's offensive ability
Kidd-Gilchrist comes in at No. 18 which is just ahead of Rudy Gay and right behind Tobias Harris. While Michael isn’t a top small forward, it would be more encouraging to see him closer to the top-10 after five years in the league. Unless he improves his outside shot, this is likely the range where MKG will rank for the rest of his career.