Reports coming out of Charlotte, North Carolina indicate that Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has signed a new four-year contract extension. The extension is said to be worth $52 million. A 6-foot-7 small forward, Kidd-Gilchrist is known mostly for his great defensive ability. But for a player who was once considered to have a broken jump shot motion, Kidd-Gilchrist has improved on the offensive side of the court.
During the 13-14 NBA season, Kidd-Gilchrist averaged just 7.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. But last season Kidd-Gilchrist improved those numbers to 10.9 points had 7.6 Rebounds per game. While it was a small improvement, the numbers show Kidd-Gilchrist is taking steps forward, instead of steps back.
Kidd-Gilchrist did put those numbers together in what was an injury plagued season where he only played 55 games.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (21) was drafted by the then Charlotte Bobcats, No.2 overall, just after fellow University of Kentucky standout and future NBA superstar Anthony Davis in the 2012 NBA Draft
Charlotte Hornets coach Steve Clifford is definitely a big fan of Kidd-Gilchrist. Clifford speaking to the Associated Press in April had this to say about him, “He’s totally changed his shooting mechanics, really more than any player I’ve ever seen.” The new contract shows that others in the organization have the share Clifford’s faith in Kidd-Gilchrist.
When speaking about what affect Kidd-Gilchrist’s improved offensive ability has on the team as a whole, Clifford had this to say. “It’s increased his confidence level. His whole leadership, assertiveness on the court and his understanding of the game has come out more for his teammates as he’s gotten more confident.”
I believe this is a great re-signing by the Charlotte Hornets; Kidd-Gilchrist is a defensive centrepiece any team would want. Plus the Hornets are doing things right. They are adding through the draft, with players such as Kemba Walker, P.J Hairston, Cody Zeller and most recently Frank Kaminsky. This Hornets team has a very bright future, if these prospects develop like the Hornets organisation think they will, then watch out for this swarm of young hungry Hornets.
Main Photo: Oct 23, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) during the first half of the game against the Indiana Pacers at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
