Three Questions

1.Role of MKG

Another reason for Charlotte’s struggles last year was the regression of MKG. The former number two overall pick has yet to have his breakout season. He never developed a three-point shot and he hasn’t lived up to his defensive reputation ( he is good, not great). Now he looks like he is losing his starting spot to Batum and both Bacon and Bridges will take minutes from him on the wing. There may be nights where MKG doesn’t even play. Don’t be surprised if they try him a little more at power forward behind Marvin Williams.

I am sure Charlotte tried to trade him in the offseason, but his $13 million salary is tough to move. Don’t be surprised if they try to move him again at the deadline, for a team in need of a wing. Maybe they play him a little more at the start of the season to get his trade value up. Moving him would also help Charlotte’s cap situation.

2.Role of Frank Kaminsky

Frank Kaminsky is in a similar situation as MKG. In his third year, he had his best shooting year, but he continued to be terrible on defense and on the glass. His shooting and passing make him useful, but he is far too inconsistent. Kaminsky is probably better at the five, but Zeller and Hernangomez are ahead of him there, so like MKG it may be tough for him to get minutes some nights.

Charlotte will still play him at the four some, but Kaminsky needs to show improved defense to get consistent minutes. Kaminsky will be fighting for a role and job this season with the Hornets. He too may get moved at the deadline and may be easier to move due to his cheap contract and shooting ability. How and if MKG and Frank fit in with the Hornets’ future will be fascinating to watch.

3. Can Charlotte extend Kemba?

This is the key question as I alluded to earlier. Kemba is Charlotte’s star player and their best player. To try to remain semi-competitive, Charlotte needs to sell Kemba on their future with Borrego, the young players, and Kupchak. Starting fast is a must, so Charlotte isn’t forced to trade him at the deadline. This will be the question lingering around Charlotte until he is extended. If he is not, Charlotte better get a monster package for him. Losing him for nothing would be absolutely devastating.