Relative to expectations, Ryan Kalkbrenner’s rookie season was nothing short of a revelation for the Charlotte Hornets. One of several first‑year players to emerge from this historic draft class, he made an immediate impact and quickly proved he belonged on an NBA floor.
Now, he’s on the verge of securing a long‑term roster spot if he can unlock the one skill many assumed he already possessed: a perimeter shot. So what’s holding him back?
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s college shooting hasn’t carried over just yet
At Creighton, Kalkbrenner spent five seasons steadily expanding his game, culminating in a standout final year where he averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game. Most notably, he attempted 1.7 threes per contest and hit 34.4% of them, which was more than enough to suggest real stretch potential.
So why does it take LaMelo Ball practically willing him into a three‑point attempt from the sideline?
The answer likely lies in his developmental priorities. Like his teammate Moussa Diabate, Kalkbrenner appears focused on mastering the fundamentals before expanding his range.
And to his credit, he was elite at what he did take on: he shot at an absurd 75.3% from the field, ranking third in the NBA among players with at least 25 games played and first among all rookies.
Given his limited minutes, it made sense not to experiment too much.
Why adding a jumper could secure his future in Charlotte
Sticking to his strengths worked as a rookie, but long‑term success in the NBA requires evolution. The Hornets are expected to bolster their frontcourt in the draft, and that added competition could complicate Kalkbrenner’s path to consistent playing time.
Diabate has already carved out a meaningful role. If Grant Williams and Miles Bridges remain on the roster and Charlotte adds another big in the first round, the minutes available at center and power forward will shrink quickly. It already did for him when the Hornets got closer to the postseason.
For Kalkbrenner to cement his place, he needs to elevate his game. And becoming a reliable shooting big is exactly what this roster lacks.
Right now, defenses simply don’t guard him on the perimeter. The scouting report says he won’t shoot, and it’s accurate. But if Charles Lee’s staff can help him unlock that part of his game, the Hornets’ offense gains a new dimension.
This would genuinely make the offense scary. It’s the key to transforming him from a situational big into a long‑term option in Charlotte’s rotation.
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