MIAMI — Behind a spread-out offensive attack and a near-All-Star-level climb from Kemba Walker, the Charlotte Hornets forced their way onto the NBA radar in 2015-16.
But injury issues, shooting woes and a lack of experience ultimately forced the Hornets out of the playoffs and into an offseason littered with question marks.
Sunday's 106-73 Game 7 loss to the Miami Heat was hardly indicative of their ability. The Hornets encountered nightmare scenarios on both ends of the floor, failing to find any offensive rhythm or defensive stability. Charlotte's 32.1 field-goal percentage sagged 16 points below Miami's, and the Hornets' final scoring tally barely covered the Heat's paint points (58).
"We didn't play obviously anywhere near the way we would have liked to," Hornets coach Steve Clifford said. "So, today is tough."
Still, progress was clearly made. The Hornets posted their best record since 1999-00 at 48-34 and enjoyed their first postseason victory since 2002.
"A lot of people didn't even think we'd be here," Walker said. "I'm just really happy with my team's effort. ... We' ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Zach Buckley
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