Grant Williams figures to have an important role in the Charlotte Hornets' plans this season because of his positional versatility, two-way capabilities, and leadership qualities. However, they may have to go through training camp and open the regular season without him, given how his recovery from tears in his right ACL and meniscus has come along.
In an interview with Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer, Williams shared feeling great physically and being able to get back on the court "in some capacity." He also admitted that he still can't go through contact in workouts, which could be a telling sign that a full return may be a little far off at the moment.
The veteran did say that he has found "serenity" in getting to shoot the ball well and talking trash on the floor. So, even if his physical health is still on the mend, he seems fine mentally. In addition, improving his outside shooting after sinking 36.5 percent of his 3-pointers during his 16-game stint in the 2024-25 campaign and embracing his role as the enforcer even spells more good news for Charlotte.
Preparing for the absence of Grant Williams
Despite the update, we shouldn't discount the possibility of Williams being ready for opening night. Even though he acknowledged that rehabilitation is a "pretty slow process," a positive development in his recovery may still take place.
On the other hand, even if Williams makes it to the rotation on the regular season opener, he could still miss training camp. That could mean skipping some opportunities to hone his skills, especially those that Charles Lee would need from him, given the new-look roster, and establish chemistry with his teammates. As consolation, Williams is already far along in the healing process that he can be in the training facility and join the rest of the squad during camp.
Maybe he can continue providing pointers to Tidjane Salaun, who is the most likely to soak up many of the minutes that would be intended for Williams. The Hornets don't have that many alternatives, as those two and Miles Bridges are probably the only guys on the roster comfortable at playing power forward. Perhaps Moussa Diabate or Liam McNeeley can be slotted at the four, depending on Lee's strategy and the matchups.
Given the situation in Charlotte, Williams' current value to the franchise cannot be overstated. So, it's better for the forward and the Hornets if his full recovery comes sooner than anticipated.