In four seasons Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has played less games each season due to injuries. The former no. 2 overall pick averaged 12.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game last season but was only active for seven games. Kidd-Gilchrist underwent season-ending surgery on a torn labrum.
Coming into training camp and the preseason “200 percent healthy”, the 23-year-old Kidd-Gilchrist is said to have an increased shooting range, per Hornets head coach Steve Clifford:
More Clifford on MKG: “His biggest difference will be his range shooting.” #HornetsMediaDay
— Charlotte Hornets PR (@HornetsPR) September 26, 2016
The pressing weakness in Kidd-Gilchrist’s game is shooting and creating a shot for himself. He’s more of a glue guy, able to find points on rebounds, looks close to the basket, or running out in transition. He’s been viewed as more of an asset on the defensive end.
Kidd-Gilchrist being a non-shooter hurts the potential spacing for Clifford’s offense, but if there is a developed sense of confidence in taking that shot, it only adds to his ceiling as a player and the capabilities for Charlotte to be able to score. The Hornets are going to need Kidd-Gilchrist to make those contributions offensively since they lost several key reserves who did exactly that. If an improved shooting range means even a little bit of improved confidence to knock down some timely jump shots, he can help the Hornets keep their desired pace as a playoff team.
