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Charlotte Hornets 2021-22 season preview: Jalen McDaniels

By Dylan Jackson

MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Jalen McDaniels #6 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball up the court against the Miami Heat during the preseason game at FTX Arena on October 11, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: Jalen McDaniels #6 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball up the court against the Miami Heat during the preseason game at FTX Arena on October 11, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /
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Jalen McDaniels is one of the more interesting players to watch for this upcoming Charlotte Hornets season. He’s a lengthy forward with a modern skill set, though he will likely be towards the end of the rotation if he gets much playing time this year.

Charlotte Hornets 2021-22 season preview: Jalen McDaniels

Jalen McDaniels averaged seven points, four rebounds, and one assist per game last season on shooting splits of 47/33/70. That’s not exactly great efficiency, but McDaniels still provides value to the Hornets compared to the other options at forward (on the free agency market). Additionally, McDaniels can continue to grow under the Charlotte developmental staff – he’s improved a lot since being drafted with the 52nd overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.

This offseason, though, the Charlotte Hornets added a roadblock to Jalen McDaniels playing time through the signing of forward Kelly Oubre. Because of this, it will likely have to wait until there is a major injury to the frontcourt in order for McDaniels to see consistent playing time. While that’s meaningful for McDaniels – that also gives the Charlotte Hornets more versatility.

With that said, the biggest facet of McDaniels game that will need improvement is his shooting. While he’s good enough to make up for a lack of high-level shooting with solid perimeter defense, adding a reliable jump-shot would almost force head coach James Borrego into playing him.

Jalen McDaniels has been one of the more successful project players selected by general manager Mitch Kupchak – but this season seems like one that is make-or-break for McDaniels. If he is able to become a consistent rotational player, McDaniels could be in line for a mid-sized extension. If he is unable to do so, though, his place in the league could be in jeopardy.

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The possibility of McDaniels being someone relied on by the Hornets is certainly there – but the signing of Oubre certainly ices him out of contention for playing time early on. However, with Borrego’s ‘earn-your-minutes’ attitude at coach, maybe we’ll see McDaniels get some run later in the season.

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