A lot of previously unheralded players have been introducing themselves big time this season, and Charlotte Hornets guard Devonte Graham has just joined the conversation.
The 24-year-old point guard out of Kansas recorded a career-high 35 points in Charlotte’s razor close 122-120 overtime win over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday.
Graham came off the bench and scored the most points by a non-starter in Hornets’ history. His 35 markers was also the most points scored by a bench player this season so far, per Rick Bonell of the Observer.
After spending four years in Kansas, Graham was picked 34th overall in the second round of last year’s draft by the Atlanta Hawks. He was traded to the Hornets for two second round picks on draft day.
Playing the same position as Charlotte’s superstar Kemba Walker in his first year, Graham seldom saw the floor last season and suited up in just 46 regular season games and normed 4.7 points and 2.6 assists.
Now with Walker out of the picture, Graham has been utilized more by James Borrego in his sophomore year, emerging as the primary back-up for Terry Rozier.
Graham has taken full advantage of his extended usage, averaging 14.3 points, 3.8 boards and 6.8 assists prior to his 35-point explosion against Cleveland. He has also been a reliable shooter for the Hornets, knocking down 47.2 percent of his attempts from downtown.
The Hornets currently sport a 4-3 record and are currently ranked sixth in the Eastern Conference Standings. The team has also received valuable contribution from rookie PJ Washington, who has broken an NBA record for most made 3-pointers in his debut.
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