According to the Charlotte Observer, Hornets forward Nic Batum could appear in the starting lineup come opening night. Batum, who is recovering from a sore Achilles injury, has evidently made enough progress to be available when the NBA season begins this week. Batum has missed three of the five Hornets preseason games.
Veteran guard-forward Batum missed the last three of five preseason games with soreness in his right Achilles tendon. He was cleared for full participation in practice Saturday, and coach James Borrego indicated Batum could return to the starting lineup for the regular-season opener Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls.
Batum’s skillset would greatly benefit the Hornets. At 6’9, Batum can pass, score and defend. Apparently, this may be a big reason why Hornets’ head coach James Borrego wants to place him back in the starting lineup.
If Batum went back into the starting lineup, it doesn’t necessarily mean Washington would be the one moving back to the second unit. Because the 6-9 Batum plays both guard and forward, Borrego could hypothetically move Washington, Bridges or Bacon to open a starting spot.
If Batum does move back into the starting lineup, it would be about adding ball-movement, defense and experience to a young group in the midst of a rebuild. Center Zeller is the only current Hornets starter with extensive NBA starting experience.
Batum will also provide veteran leadership to a young Hornets team that will be under new point guard leadership in Terry Rozier. If Batum is healthy enough to come back, then it will provide that offensive/defensive boost that the Hornets covet.
Follow Us
Subscribe