With the All-Star break almost over, the Charlotte Hornets could be getting their stellar defensive rookie back in time for Thursday’s game.
Before the All-Star break, the Charlotte Hornets lost their rookie, Cody Martin, due to a concussion. Reports of the concussion surfaced after the Hornets’ loss to the Houston Rockets on February 4th. Martin started in that game, and it was the first start of his career.
Since his injury, the Hornets went as far as to start his twin brother Caleb Martin, who was signed as an undrafted free agent at the beginning of the season. If healthy, Martin could’ve started in another game.
However, when Martin was injured, the Hornets went 2-1, heading into the All-Star break riding a two-game winning streak. On Tuesday, it was reported that Martin could return for Thursday’s road game against the Chicago Bulls.
Per @hornets coach James Borrego, @cody_martin15 (concussion protocol) fully participated in practice Tuesday. How Martin feels tomorrow figures to be final step in being cleared to play.
— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) February 18, 2020
While Martin is still in concussion protocol, he was able to participate in Tuesday’s practice. Depending on how Martin feels on Wednesday will determine if he will be cleared to play for Thursday.
This is good news since Martin has been an asset to the Hornets in recent games. In Martin’s last two games, he has averaged 12.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, picking up new career highs.
Moreover, Cody Martin is averaging 4.5 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. According to Basketball Index, Martin is among the top-4 in the 2019-2020 Rookie PIPM Leaders.
Martin’s defense has shocked many, and he is one of the players on the team that gives the Hornets the most effort. It’s almost rare not to see Martin chasing down a rebound or loose ball when he plays.
Getting Martin back would significantly help the Hornets and his personal development as a player. If Martin plays on Thursday, expect him to be one of the first to come off the bench.