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The Charlotte Hornets wouldn’t make the playoffs if the season ended today, but no one expected them to even have a chance this year. As it stands, they’re currently right behind the Detroit Pistons for eighth place in the Eastern Conference; however, the Hornets will be a much better team once Al Jefferson works his way back into rhythm. He has only played 19 games this season, and his scoring average of 12.5 points per game is far below his career average.
The Hornets are 24-25 so far, but they recently had an impressive victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers with Michael Jordan in attendance. Kemba Walker has been great this season, and he leads Charlotte in scoring with 20.5 points per game. Walker must improve his playmaking ability, though, if they’re going to be a real threat in the playoffs. He is only averaging 5.0 assists per game as a point guard, and his teammate Nicolas Batum is topping that by recording 5.4 per contest. It just doesn’t make sense that a team’s wingman averages more assists than its PG.
Batum has been the most surprising player for Charlotte this year, and he’ll be a target for many teams looking to spend money this offseason in free agency. Hopefully he’ll stay put, because this squad seems to need his shooting and passing ability. The Hornets should be proud about their win against Cleveland on Wednesday, but Charlotte must also keep this momentum rolling.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has been a pleasant addition for the Hornets as well. He recently returned from shoulder surgery, and he’s performed exceptionally in the three games since getting back. He guarded LeBron James masterfully on Wednesday, and Charlotte will need Kidd-Gilchrist around to be a problem for contenders in the playoffs. Owner Jordan should be proud of this team, because they have overachieved by a large degree this season.
Final First Half Grade: B
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