Reserves: Ish Smith, Nick Richards, James Bouknight
Ish Smith
Grade: D
Had this grade been given in the first few weeks of the season, it would’ve been much higher.
The journeyman and Charlotte-native had a strong start to the season while filling in for the injured Terry Rozier but has fallen off lately and has only received playing time when needed.
Smith is a journeyman for a reason with his limited size and offensive ability but he has had a few nice moments. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been enough to be a regular rotation guy.
Nick Richards
Grade: D+
While he might not be a guy that can be relied on every night, Nick Richards has done what he’s been asked of a lot this season, which is come in the game, play defense and rebound in limited minutes.
Richards honestly shouldn’t be in a rotation right now and has a ways to go if he wants to be in this league a while but he hasn’t been a disaster, which is more than the Hornets could have asked for.
James Bouknight
Grade: Incomplete
Drafted 11th overall in this past draft, James Bouknight has yet to gain the full trust of Borrego and has only seen playing time in lopsided games or when there are a handful of injuries.
The injury of Jalen McDaniels might open up some more playing time but Bouknight has a ways to go on defense and becoming a more consistent player.
In December, Bouknight showed his potential with a 24-point game and he can only hope that he gets more of a chance as the season goes on.