Coming off a letdown of a season in 2014-15 the Charlotte Hornets came into 2015-16 looking to make some noise. So far, so good.
Charlotte has solidified themselves as playoff contenders in the Eastern Conference and a big part of their recent 7-3 record in their last 10 games has been big man, Al Jefferson. Charlotte is also outscoring opponents by 6.3 points per 100 possessions and they are currently in the playoff picture out East, in the six spot right now.
It appears that Hornets might have to make something work without ‘Big Al’ going forward as he’s expected to miss some time.
Following from an official Charlotte Hornets press release.
Charlotte Hornets center Al Jefferson underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) earlier today which confirmed the team’s initial diagnosis of a strained left calf. Jefferson, who suffered the injury in the first quarter of Sunday’s 87-82 win vs. Milwaukee, is expected to be sidelined for approximately two to three weeks.
Compared to years past, the Hornets seem to be prepared for the annual Al Jefferson injury issue. Tyler Hansbrough, Cody Zeller, Spencer Hawes and Frank Kaminsky will get more playing time and if they can step up, the Hornets will not slow down much.
It’s a catch 22 with and without Big Al on the floor for Charlotte. This season, their defense has been solid when Jefferson is on the bench, giving up 94.2 points per 100 possessions, which is 10 points better than when he is on the court but their offense and rebounding efforts are stronger when he plays. The Hornets might be playing smaller with their lineups but their rebounding and rim protection will definitely take a big hit.
