Game Preview: NBA Rising Stars game featuring a few Charlotte Hornets
By Noah Farrell
With the NBA Rising Stars game tonight, a few Charlotte Hornets have a great opportunity to leave a mark on national television.
The Charlotte Hornets fanbase had somewhat of a pleasant surprise when the NBA Rising Stars game roster had three Hornets on it! Some may have assumed Devonte’ Graham would be an addition to this year’s roster but to have PJ Washington and Miles Bridges included as well was not nearly as expected.
Devonte’ has averaged 18.1 points and 7.8 assists per game this season. He has also had some incredible performances, with 40 points in Brooklyn earlier this season being perhaps the most memorable.
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PJ Washington’s stats look like 11.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and almost a block and a steal per game. His overall game and his skill level tell so much more about him than his decent rookie splits. His versatility is a nice addition to the roster.
Miles is averaging 13 points and 5.5 rebounds as well. His highlight-reel dunks and athleticism will provide some punch and thrill to the upcoming game.
This game provides an excellent opportunity for the youngsters to show the world their talents on a very large stage.
NBA Rising Stars
9:00 p.m. EST, Friday, February 14th, 2020
United Center
TNT
Stream: Youtube.tv
Things to watch for:
With the backcourt being so loaded with talents such as Trae Young, Ja Morant, Tyler Herro, Collin Sexton, and Kendrick Nunn, expect Devonte’ to distribute the ball more-so than to score, seeing as his natural playstyle is playmaking and he will be playing with lots of scoring guards.
Miles and PJ should have more of an opportunity. With the likes of Zion Williamson, Jaren Jackson Jr, and Eric Paschall, Miles and PJ should get a lot of minutes tonight. With no real centers playing for the USA team tonight, they will have to put out three forwards at most times.
Keys to the game:
The key to a successful night tonight is just to have fun. This Rising Stars challenge does not count towards anything or have an impact on the regular season so, in order to “win” tonight, the guys only need to have fun and enjoy the opportunity to play alongside their “rising star” colleagues that they will play against or with the foreseeable future.
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Tonight should be a treat for Devonte’, Miles, and PJ but also for Charlotte Hornet fans to see their rising stars play in a game that recognizes young and budding talent. There is hope for the future of the Hornets organization and we should all appreciate where we are heading!