Charlotte Hornets: Matching each player to a 2018 rap album

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CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 28: Kemba Walker #15 of the Charlotte Hornets arrives to the arena prior to the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 28, 2018 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Seven months into 2018, and we’re already loaded with potential album of the year candidates. Who plays like each of these albums sounds?

Last year, I compared the Hornets roster to rap albums from 2017. With the off-season in full swing, it’s time for an update. Here’s your Charlotte Hornets comparison for 2018 hip-hop releases.

Kemba Walker & CARE FOR ME by Saba

Underrated All-Stars.

Chicago rapper Saba’s second album CARE FOR ME seemingly slipped through the cracks of the mainstream, yet received massive critical acclaim. Written in the wake of his cousin Walter Long Jr.’s death, CARE FOR ME focuses on the emotional trauma of loss and grief. The album’s poetic storytelling gripped listeners and critics alike.

PROM / KING should remain in consideration for song of the year as one of the most vivid paintings of Saba’s prom experience. Broken Girls is another standout track from the album, delivering with brutal self-honesty on lines like “Really I’m not your crutch, really you’re not my girl / Really she usin’ me, but it’s cool, we use each other”.

The similarities between CARE FOR ME and Kemba Walker are found in their public perception. Kemba Walker isn’t a wildly popular player (only an 86 in 2K!?!?), and Saba isn’t topping Billboard in sales. But both are still at the top of their respective fields. They deserve more recognition, plain and simple.

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