Buzz City Beat: Charlotte Hornets to take on Boston Celtics in first preseason game
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Julyan Stone that his job this year is to do the dirty work and get physical with opposing point guards who get physical with Kemba Walker. In this edition of Buzz City Beat, we look at a preview of the Charlotte Hornets‘ first preseason game against the Boston Celtics, a unique storyline to follow and Malik Monk‘s long-awaited debut.
Hornets to take on Boston in first preseason game (NBCSports.com)
"“We’re going to get spun around in circles,” Stevens said. “I’m looking forward to seeing what goes well. I’m looking forward to teaching off of what doesn’t. It’s a great team to have to play against.”"
Gordon Hayward said that Charlotte “will be a good test” for them. I think Boston will also be a good test for the Hornets. The Celtics are expected to be one of the best squads in the Eastern Conference this season and even though both teams’ starters won’t play the whole game, it will be interesting to see how the game plays out when the starters are in.
Steve Clifford’s side will be without two players in Treveon Graham (hamstring) and Michael Carter-Williams (knee procedure) as both are still recovering. After missing the open practice with an illness, Kemba Walker should be available in this one. Expect the Hornets’ starters to be Kemba, Nicolas Batum, MKG, Marvin Williams and Dwight Howard.
Unique storyline to follow in Charlotte’s preseason (iSportsWeb.com)
"There is one trend, however, that will capture the attention of everyone. Kemba Walker throwing lobs to Dwight Howard. The alley-oop is an underrated source of crowd hype. It is such a unique move that it can be the most effective way to gain support from the fans at times."
Dwight Howard is arguably the biggest name to come to Charlotte since the team signed Al Jefferson in 2013. At his peak, he was one of, if not, the most athletic players in the league. The Hornets have lacked a dominant, athletic force who could throw down alley-oops and dunks over defenders for some time.
The Walker-Howard connection is an interesting storyline to watch. We’ve seen both Kemba and Nic develop great chemistry with Cody Zeller and have success in the pick-and-roll. Will Dwight be able to have the same impact this season? Even though there will be growing pains, it’s intriguing to see how the eight-time all-star will mix with his new team and new point guard.
Malik Monk to make long-awaited debut (GastonGazette.com)
"there’s much anticipation about Monk’s 2017 preseason debut on Monday at 7:30 p.m. when Hornets visit the Boston Celtics. When asked what that game is going to feel like, Monk offers a one-word answer: “Amazing.” “I’ll be back on the court hopefully,” Monk said. “And I hope my ankle feels good.”"
Next: Five players to watch during preseason
It’s great to see Malik so excited to be back on the court. If anything, missing the Orlando Pro Summer League has made Monk’s debut even more highly anticipated. The biggest concern is Malik’s ankle. Hopefully, he can get through his first preseason game without re-aggravating an injury that’s plagued him since being drafted.