Buzz City Beat: Charlotte Hornets biggest question mark, How Kemba became a star
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Paul Pierce said that Kemba Walker is the most under-appreciated point guard in the NBA. Chauncey Billups argued that Damian Lillard is but admitted that Kemba is a close second in his eyes. In this edition of Buzz City Beat, we look at the Charlotte Hornets’ biggest question mark, how Kemba grew into a star and LeBron James offers his thoughts on rookie Malik Monk.
Hornets biggest question mark (BleacherReport.com)
"Having Nicolas Batum healthy might help in a trickle-down fashion, especially if Lamb keeps imitating a blowtorch. And maybe Steve Clifford can find the right ways to capitalize on Michael Carter-Williams‘ length and vision. But we’re treating any future hopes with must-see-it-to-believe-it skepticism, because that’s how the stat sheet says we should."
Charlotte’s depth, or lack thereof, is their biggest question mark. On paper, it looks like they have a strong bench comprised of MCW, Malik Monk, Jeremy Lamb, Frank Kaminsky and Cody Zeller but they haven’t looked that way on the court. It may take time for the Hornets’ second unit to come together and excel but until then, they have been costing the team games by giving up leads and digging themselves into a hole on a consistent basis.
According to the article, Charlotte’s backups are one of the least efficient in the league ranking 28th in the NBA with -10.0 points per 100 possessions. It will be interesting to see what Coach Clifford changes going forward. Malik Monk has been getting the backup point guard minutes but we may see MCW take over while pushing Monk to the 2 guard spot and Lamb to the backup small forward role. That would mean that breakout rookie Dwayne Bacon would fall out of the rotation after a promising start to the year.
How Kemba survived the Bobcats and became a star (CBSsports.com)
"Once doubted because of his poor percentages from deep, Walker participated in the 3-point shootout last season. Once labeled a gunner, Walker has become one of the most efficient players at his position."
It’s crazy to think that Walker is the last remaining member of the infamous 7-59 Bobcats’ team from 2011-12. Since then, he’s turned not only himself around but also the team around. He is now an all-star and the Hornets are hoping to land a top-six playoff spot in the East. His rise can be attributed to his much improved three-point shot and excellent shooting efficiency.
That growth is due in large part to his tireless work ethic. While Steve Clifford and other coaches have helped, the Bronx native’s development is a product of the time he’s put in and now everyone is enjoying the fruits of his labor. Marvin Williams says that Kemba “established the culture” in Charlotte. Walker expressed that he never wants to be at the bottom of the league ever again.
Kemba Walker’s rise has been nothing short of incredible.
LeBron James praises rookie Malik Monk (Twitter)
"LeBron on Malik Monk: “He has an ability to catch fire really fast. He’s going to be a very good pro.”"
Next: How Nic Batum can help save the Hornets
James commended Malik’s explosive scoring power as the Hornets’ rookie has shown the capacity to erupt for 15 points in a single quarter early in his career. Despite a somewhat slow start, the Kentucky product has shown the talent and potential to be “very good pro” like LeBron said. Monk also had good things to say about The King stating that “He was in his prime when I was watching. He’s still in his prime now.”