Could Serge Ibaka solve the rebounding problem for the Charlotte Hornets?

The Charlotte Hornets were subpar this last season, but there is plenty of potential on the roster.

With the 20-21 season in sight, the Charlotte Hornets need to fix their team on both sides of the court.

What is the Hornets’ biggest issue?

One of the biggest issues with the Hornets is their lackluster rebounding. The Hornets’ troubles on the boards can no longer be ignored. This lack of rebounding then proceeds to bleed into the subpar paint play on the offensive side of the ball.

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The Hornets averaged only 51 rebounds, ranking them at 23rd in the league. The Hornets have to pick up a solid rebounder this offseason to give the team a competitive edge. Granted, the Hornets have the number three draft pick in this year’s draft and can bring in more rebounds through James Weisman.

The Hornets ranked 11th in second-chance points last season and a dominant present in the paint could put them from looking in, to finding a spot in the playoffs in the East. The Hornets could strengthen their rebounding and become even better at the second chance buckets really setting them apart from the rest of the league.

Charlotte also struggles to score in the paint where they rank 21st in the NBA which is absurd because they are so good on the putbacks.

Serge Ibaka could solve the Charlotte Hornets rebounding problem

According to LegionHoopsRoss, the Hornets could look into pursuing veteran Serge Ibaka.

Firstly, I believe that Ibaka could greatly improve the Hornets on all sides of the ball.

In terms of rebounds, Ibaka averages eight boards a game and can greatly improve the Hornets offense. Ibaka averages 51% from the field and can help give the Hornets a boost. Ibaka also ranks in the top 30 rebounders in the NBA.

Ibaka is a three-time all-defensive NBA player and even led the league in blocks twice. Ibaka’s defensive presence can really help the Hornets improve their rebound numbers since Ibaka can suffocate bigs in the paint.

Ibaka scores 49% of his points within ten feet of the basket, with a 65% frequency of taking zero or one dribble before scoring. Ibaka will be able to add a layer of inside scoring for the Hornets that not a lot of other players can do, especially considering that he is a veteran in the locker room.

Ibaka picks up 95% of his rebounds within ten of the basket, averaging about five defensive rebounds a game during the ’19-’20 season.

Final takes

I think that Ibaka’s addition to the Hornets could solidify Charlotte as an Easter Conference contender. With Ibaka’s solid perimeter and inside defense he can add a lot to the Hornets offense and defensive presence.

Swarm and Sting will continue to monitor the Hornet’s pursuit of Ibaka and the offseason changes to the roster.