Charlotte Hornets: Positives and Negatives through 44 Games

Kemba Walker

The captain has continued his rise in the NBA and remains the sole leader of the franchise and previously was an MVP caliber player early in the season, challenging Kyrie Irving as the best point guard in the east.

The two-time All Star is well on his way to a third appearance on the star-studded stage and again leads the team in points (25.2), steals (1.2), and assists (5.7).

Tony Parker

The 17-year vet has become the sixth man/backup point guard that has eluded the Hornets for most of it’s return to Charlotte. Currently averaging 9.5 PPG, Parker has often and effectively flashed the skill reminiscent a six-time NBA All-Star.

Parker has been such a Godsend for the Hornets in terms of leadership, giving a reliable scoring punch off the bench and mentoring the younger Hornets that one could easily forget how much of the fanbase questioned the signing in favor of younger guard Shabazz Napier.

Jeremy Lamb

Lamb has made the shooting guard position his own during the first half of the season. Improving his shooting to 15.2 PPG and providing a reliable second scorer beside Walker in the starting lineup.

Currently in the last year of his contract, Lamb has played well in his new role and has outplayed second-year guard Malik Monk for the starting position.

Devonte’ Graham

Probably the best second rounder with highest potential that the Hornets have ever drafted.

Coming into the season, much wasn’t expected of Graham as he was slotted behind Walker and Parker, but Graham has shown that he can be a quality NBA player, a great backup to Walker, and possibly the future of the franchise if the Walker situation takes a turn for the worse.

Gaining experience from both veteran guards has seemingly worked for Graham, as he has continued to show and increasing knowledge of the NBA game, steady defense, and playmaking skills. Clearly, much is to be expected from the rookie in the coming games and years.

James Borrego

The latest successor to become the head coach of the Hornets has proved to be a great leading man for the current team and modern NBA.

Gone are the days of the Hornets being dragged for not playing rookies or underutilizing a team capable of playing at a faster pace. Borrego has seeming changed a failing culture while continuously motivating and developing the younger players.

Grown from the Gregg Popovich coaching tree, Borrego got his start with the San Antonio Spurs and quickly grew his knowledge and skill as an assistant coach for many years. Now with Charlotte, he has shown that he can manage life as a head coach by not only doing the things that help build chemistry and culture, but by leading the team to a near .500 record for most of the season.