Players to Watch For in Atlanta’s Southeast Division

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist – Charlotte Hornets

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is a player to watch; not because he is replacing someone but because of injuries. He was forced to miss all but seven games last year but that’s nothing new. Kidd-Gilchrist hasn’t played more than 62 since his rookie season. Basketball is an unforgiving game and all kinds of criticisms have been thrown at him because of that time missed.

This year, though, MKG is ready to go. “I’m shooting, I’m lifting, I’m running. I’ll be ready for next season,” he said to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer.

And, although the former second overall pick has struggled with injuries, it does not mean he has not contributed. He is a hard-worker, a terrific rebounder and athlete, in which the Hornets are better because of it. Kentucky coach John Calipari has suggested that Kidd-Gilchrist was vital for their success and it is hard to disagree. He is infinitely committed, gives his all and exerts that influence over his teammates, creating a ‘breakfast club’ while at Kentucky to work on the team’s game.

"“There is always something more I expect of myself. If I have a double-double, then I still expect more. That’s not really about stats, it’s more about leadership stuff, having my mental (approach) right for all of 100 games,” Kidd-Gilchrist said, via Bonnell. “That’s just who I am. I know I set the tone for this team. I know how important I am to this team and the coaching staff. My presence means a lot. Whether it’s being here all summer long or being the first to show up and the last to leave.”"

One criticism MKG has faced was that his jump-shot was never good but he has taken strides in the right direction to correct it. Once a “crooked, over-the-shoulder catapult,” Kidd-Gilchrist has worked endlessly to improve his shot and we saw the results in those seven games last year. His field goal percentage rose from .465 to .541 and his effective field goal percentage climbed from .465 to .566. In general, MKG looked more confident pulling up off the dribble and looking for his own shot. It is disappointing that we did not get a chance to see whether he could have done so consistently.

Kidd-Gilchrist should come into this season hungry to play and eager to prove that he can still contribute. Injuries drastically alter careers, see; Derrick Rose or Shaun Livingston, but Kidd-Gilchrist’s work ethic should see him through. He has steadily improved every year and MKG should be an integral part of another playoff run for Charlotte.

"“For the 2016-17 Charlotte Hornets to have a successful season, they will need Michael Kidd-Gilchrist healthy and able to bring great defense and hard work every night. MKG will only be 23-year old when this coming season begins, so the potential for him to become a really great basketball player is still there,” Laieke Abebe of FanSided’s Swarm and Sting said."

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will be a player to watch and with a lot to prove in the 2016-17 season. He will need to show that he can stay healthy for a season and that his previous injuries have not limited his game and stifled his potential. If he can demonstrate further repairs to his jump shot and Kidd-Gilchrist could show why he was a second-overall pick. This could be his year.

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