Michael Kidd-Gilchrist was an incredibly valuable player for the Charlotte Hornets last season, mainly due to his stifling defense. The Hornets know how much value he has, and signed him to a 4-year, $52 million extension.
However, Kidd-Gilchrist suffered a separated right shoulder during pre-season, and was expected to be out 6 months after undergoing surgery.
That would put him on pace to come back around April this season. He seems to be on track, or ahead of schedule. He has been cleared for full-contact practice. From the team’s official announcement on NBA.com:
The Charlotte Hornets announced today that forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has been cleared for full-contact practice by team orthopedist Dr. Marcus Cook.
The team hasn’t updated Kidd-Gilchrist’s timetable, but perhaps that’s coming soon. If he’s already cleared for full contact practice, it’s quite possible that he returns sooner than April.
The Hornets started the season off well behind strong play from Nicolas Batum and Kemba Walker, despite the absence of Kidd-Gilchrist and Al Jefferson, but now have fallen back to earth, losing 8 of their last 10. The return of Kidd-Gilchrist should anchor their defense, and improve the team overall.
