5 Things we learned from Hornets opening Summer League game
By Adam Taylor
#4 Kai Jones coasts by in the Hornets’ loss to the Spurs
Kai Jones is in a similar boat to James Bouknight. Entering his third NBA season, having failed to make much of an impact since joining the Hornets roster, Jones should be ready for a breakout year. Instead, Jones was hardly more than a spectator during his minutes on the court.
Rarely did the 6’11” big man impact opponents’ shot timing, shot release, or offensive rhythm, and rarely did he spring his teammates free by smart screening or cutting. Instead, Jones ran his lanes, set his screens, and did very little else.
Playing 21 minutes as the Hornets starting center, Jones ended the game with no rebounds, just 2 points, and 2 steals. For a player that is already fighting a spot in the rotation behind Mark Williams and Nick Richards, Jones appeared to be apathetic toward his current situation with Charlotte.
If Jones has another performance as he did against the Spurs, it’s hard to see how Charlotte can justify keeping him around beyond his current contract. Two years of developing in an NBA system should not lead to you being the least productive member of a Summer League team.