For somebody who spent their entire career winning it must be hard for the world’s greatest basketball player to be at the helm of a team on the very opposite of the spectrum. LOSING has become the brand of ball in Charlotte over the past few years, however there may be a light at the end of the tunnel for MJ and the struggling Bobcats and here are a few reasons why -
Mike Dunlap – While the hiring of Dunlap came as a surprise to nearly EVERYONE in the basketball world it may be one day heralded as a master stroke by Jordan who plucked Dunlap from virtually nowhere to take the helm of his hapless Bobcats who amassed an embarrassing 7-59 record last season. Dunlap is known for his intense workouts and has taken the team back to focusing on the basic fundamentals of basketball, something that with such a raw roster of talent will hopefully pay some OKC style dividends in years to come.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist – As if going on a record losing streak at the end of last year and amassing the worst winning percentage in league history wasn’t enough they continued that losing streak by losing out on the number 1 pick in the lottery. Bobcat’s fans shouldn’t fear though because MKG is here and he’s come to ball. Averaging 10.9 points 6.3 rebounds 1.3 blocks per game he has proved to be a vital contributor to the Bobcats. Already an intense defender with the ability to crash the boards at the 3 spot MKG has shown that he has the ability to match it in the league. If he can improve his jump shot (I’m sure Jordan should be able to help with that) the only way is up for MKG and the Bobcat’s organisation.
Kemba Walker – 18 game losing streak aside the cats have been at least competitive to start the year with them being in striking distance of winning a share of those games. That brings me to Kemba Walker 2.0. Kemba’s game has stepped up significantly this year with his averages of 18.1 points 6.0 assists being a definite improvement from last year’s underwhelming stat line of 12.1 points and 4.4 assists. His playing time may have increased this year but that has been due to some stellar play from the 2nd year point guard posting a career high 32 points in a great display against the Magic early on in the season. If Kemba can keep this level of play going and you throw in a developing MKG I think we are going to see a lot more improvement this season from the Bobcats. I know Michael Jordan certainly hopes so.
