Four players who need to step up: P.J Washington, Big, Charlotte Hornets
Washington’s future in Charlotte could rest entirely on how he plays this season. With Miles Bridges set to be a restricted free agent this year, Charlotte will have to decide on who will be the starting power forward of the future.
While Bridges’ play at the end of last season points to him being the starter to start this season, Washington can take that spot with improved and consistent play.
Washington saw a slight improvement in his stats from year one to year two. Heading into year three, the Hornets hope to see the same jump in Washington that they saw in Bridges the year before.
Thankfully, Charlotte’s success will not depend on if Washington is starting or not. It will depend on Washington’s ability to play prolonged minutes at center.
Last season Hornets fans drooled over the team’s small-ball lineup that included Washington at the center position. Despite being a quick fun team on the offensive side of the ball, the Hornets found themselves undersized and a step behind on defense, making the line-up unplayable for extended periods.
If Washington can come in off the bench to relieve Plumlee of some minutes and play effective basketball at the center spot, the Hornets will be a much better team.
This will be a tough task for the undersized Washington. With depth at center thin, Washington’s center minutes should increase this year. He had bright flashes at the five last year and with improved interior defense, playing Washington at center could be an exciting advantage for Charlotte.