As the Charlotte Hornets continue to get deeper into the season, a simple rotation switch could aid the team. The center position has not been as productive as the team could wish for this season, promoting a possible change.
While it’s unclear if the Hornets will commit to trading for a center, they would do well to replace either Cody Zeller or Bismack Biyombo with Nick Richards. Richards has only seen limited playing time. In 10 games this season, he’s averaged 1.3 points and 0.8 rebounds per game.
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Even though Richards has not played a lot of professional minutes, he played very well while in the G-League. In 9 games with the Greensboro Swarm, Richards averaged 17.0 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game.
Richards has already shown the Hornets that he can score in the paint and rebound the ball consistently. One of his strongest skill sets is his ability to defend the rim. Richard’s defensive skills still need polishing, but he’s already proved he can consistently block shots.
One of his most surprising skills he showed off with the Swarm was his outside shot. Richards never attempted a three-point shot in college, but he made seven three-pointers and shot 50% from deep.
Richards is not a starter, but some time off the bench could help with his development. If the Hornets plan on swapping out one of their bigs, then they would have a chance to see what Richards can do.
Zeller and Biyombo are set to become unrestricted free agents at the end of this season, so the Hornets need to look at their young players.
The NBA trade deadline is on March 25, so the Hornets could look at playing him more if they do not make a move.