Charlotte Hornets rookie PJ Washington has a broken finger on his right hand, the team announced on Saturday. He suffered the injury on Friday against the Chicago Bulls. Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN is reporting Washington is expected to be sidelined through Christmas:

In 28 games this season for the Hornets, Washington is averaging 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists. He's shooting 48.1 percent from the field, 40.6 percent from beyond the arc and 70.4 percent from the free-throw line.

The Hornets, after defeating the Bulls on Friday, are now 12-16 on the season. They are in the ninth spot in the Eastern Conference standings.

Washington has been one of the best rookies this season. It's a tough blow for the Hornets, but the good news is that it looks like PJ will play again this season.

The Hornets missed the playoffs last season. Because the bottom half of the East is so bad, Charlotte has a chance to make it this season. The Hornets will likely compete with the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons for the 8th and final playoff spot in the East. Charlotte is already 3-0 against the Pistons this season.

Washington was the 12th overall pick in the 2019 draft out of Kentucky. He's already proven to be a great stretch four shooter for the Hornets.