Charlotte Hornets Round Table: Five early predictions for the 2019-20 season

With the 12th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Hornets selected P.J. Washington out of Kentucky. Will he have an immediate impact or will he have limited playing time? Our writers weigh in.

Giovanni Spillman:

“Mitch Kupchak stated after the draft that he believes all three draft picks will spend a lot of time in the G-League. I do not expect Washington to have an instant impact, but he could have a role similar to Devonte Graham’s last season and come in late toward the middle of the season.”

Zachary Padmore:

“I think the Charlotte Hornets are going to bring P.J. Washington along slowly to begin the season. As the season progresses, I could see him playing more and more of a bigger role, especially if a front court player like Marvin Williams is traded. He’s a talented young man and is a big part of this teams future, so I would expect that they take his development seriously as a rookie.”

Filippo Barresi:

“Last year, James Borrego showed no fear in playing the rookies. Bridges had consistent playing time, even in the first part of the season. PJ will see the court a lot and I think we may see him playing the five in some playing situation. Washington is a productive player, always trying to have a good impact when he is on the floor, offensively and defensively. This aspect of our rookie will be appreciated by our coach, for sure.”

Nick Vetrone:

“Limited but successful. I’m really excited to see Washington play for the Hornets this year. I think he will provide consistency for a team that is already bracing to hit some very low points. However, I don’t expect him to play significantly more minutes than anyone else at the PF position to begin the year.”

Elijah Edwards:

“He could see a decent amount of playing time, especially since the team isn’t expected to compete. I do think, however, that he will spend most of his time in the G-League, getting some much-needed experience. Of course, injuries could play a part in how much time he sees in the everyday lineup., but I feel like he’ll spend most of his time on the Swarm.”

Brendan Boylan:

“The 12th pick of this summer’s draft did not participate in the Summer League due to injury but is on track to be healthy to participate in training camp. During the introduction of the 2019 Charlotte draft class General Manager Mitch Kupchak stated Washington along with 2nd round picks Cody Martin and Jalen McDaniels will spend much of this season with the G-League affiliate, Greensboro Swarm. This creating many questions on the impact Washington will have in the upcoming season. With sophomore Miles Bridges appearing to move to the 4 spot it appears that at this point Kupchak’s statements are genuine and true. Washington will spend a portion of the season in Greensboro, however, expect late-season minutes to be given to Washington in Charlotte that will result in minimal impact to the team’s record.”

De White:

“I think he’ll have a pretty slow start at first, only because he’s a rookie and will probably play behind Williams and Miles Bridges. I’m hesitant to see him and Bridges play together, but I’m also intrigued at the thought. If he can catch his stride early then, I would love to possibly see the young guys and Zeller playing and building that chemistry.”

Owen Watterson:

“P.J. Washington will be an interesting watch for every fan this season. We did not get to see him in the summer league like his fellow former wildcat Malik Monk, so all there is to base his upcoming season on is his college play. Washington’s mold is very similar to Miles Bridges; very athletic, but needing improvement beyond the arc. Washington should provide very valuable minutes off of the bench for the Charlotte Hornets, and could find himself in a starting role if Marvin underperforms or finds himself traded in February.”