5 Things we learned from Hornets opening Summer League game

#2 Nick Smith Jr. provides a relentless offensive presence for the Hornets

Nick Smith Jr. didn’t enjoy the most productive of debuts for the Hornets. The rookie guard produced 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, and 4 turnovers in 29 minutes of playing time, shooting an inefficient 35.7% from the field and 20% from deep.

We can put Smith Jr’s scoring struggles down to first-game jitters for now. Yet, Smith Jr did bring a relentlessness that could see him become a fan favorite if he can sustain his energy level during the regular NBA season.

The Arkansas product consistently looked to beat his man off the dribble, manipulated the defense with pick-and-roll play, and was fearless in getting downhill before looking to make good on his floater game. As a late first-round pick, Smith Jr. doesn’t have nearly as much pressure on his shoulders as Miller, which should allow him to develop his game outside of the spotlight.

Confidence is half the battle when getting accustomed to new teammates, a new playing style, and a higher level of competition. Judging by Smith Jr’s performance against the Spurs, confidence doesn’t appear to be an issue. Hopefully, as Summer League progresses, Smith Jr. plays with a little more control over his game and makes good on some of his shot attempts – judging by his first game (which is 100% too much of a small sample size), Smith Jr. has the ability to be a relentless scoring threat as a secondary guard.