Despite losing their sixth straight game Tuesday night against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Charlotte Hornets received some encouraging news. Nick Richards returned from a rib fracture Saturday night against the Atlanta Hawks and followed it up with an efficient 24-point, 14-rebound performance against the Sixers, showcasing his ability to dominate in the paint. Mark Williams also made his long-awaited return after spending 361 days sidelined due to injury, setting a personal NBA inactive record. In nine minutes, the third-year center from Duke contributed four points and three rebounds. These performances offer hope for a team struggling with injuries.
The Hornets remain without LaMelo Ball, sidelined with a left calf strain, and Miles Bridges, who has missed the last seven games with a knee injury. Tre Mann is dealing with a disc irritation in his back, while Grant Williams is out for the season with a torn ACL. These injuries have significantly impacted the team, leaving the Hornets 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 6-15 record.
As the team prepares for challenging matchups against the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, the focus shifts to their young centers. How will the return of Richards and Williams impact the rotation? Can the Hornets balance their development efforts while aiming to win games?
Richards and Williams: Key to Stabilizing the Hornets’ Interior Game
When healthy, Williams and Richards provide the Hornets with a relentless presence in the paint. Both are efficient finishers, capable of scoring consistently around the rim. They control the boards, block shots, and convert free throws with precision, making it difficult for opponents to exploit them with fouls.
Their return boosts a team that has excelled in rebounding, ranking sixth in the league with 45.8 rebounds per game. The Hornets’ 13.4 offensive rebounds rank third, reflecting their effort on the glass. However, their defensive rebounding, ranked 22nd at 32.4 per game, has been a weakness. The presence of Williams and Richards should help address this, providing consistency in limiting opponents’ second-chance opportunities.
Defensively, their shot-blocking and paint protection can anchor a unit that has struggled at times. Their size, efficiency, and rebounding could stabilize the Hornets’ interior play and provide a stronger foundation this season.
Diabaté’s Role: Adapting, Developing, and Staying Ready for Opportunities
Moussa Diabaté has proven he belongs in the NBA, particularly as a relentless rebounder. In 21 games, he grabbed 11 or more rebounds eight times, with five of those performances coming off the bench. His ten offensive rebounds against the Milwaukee Bucks on November 11th exemplify his ability to dominate key moments.
Offensively, Diabaté has embraced his role as an energy player, focusing on hustle plays over scoring. He attempted seven or more shots in just two games, with 16 games featuring one or fewer attempts. His unselfish play let Ball and Brandon Miller lead offensively, but it didn’t translate into wins.
With Richards and Williams back, Diabaté may see reduced minutes and potentially spend time in the G-League. However, given the injury history of both centers, he could find himself called back into action sooner rather than later. In the G-League, Diabaté should focus on developing a reliable offensive move, such as a go-to post move or mid-range jumper. Adding this versatility to his skill set would complement his rebounding and make him a more well-rounded contributor. Hornets coaches could also prioritize refining his footwork and finishing ability in pick-and-roll situations to maximize his potential.
Conclusion
The returns of Mark Williams and Nick Richards bring much-needed stability and depth to the Charlotte Hornets’ frontcourt, offering hope for a team grappling with injuries and inconsistency. Their presence strengthens the Hornets’ interior defense and rebounds while providing a platform for future growth. With a mix of talent, effort, and growth, the Hornets’ center duo has the potential to anchor the team through the season’s challenges and emerge as a cornerstone for long-term success.
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