Without LaMelo or Terry Rozier (both sprained ankles), the Hornets were certainly not going to be favorites in Atlanta when they faced Trae Young and Dejounte Murray there. ” You can always win a game in this league by having the right approach, the right attitude, playing the right way and then sometimes things go your way, too. A guy catches fire… », Steve Clifford book.
Between the 24 points of Kelly Oubre Jr. or the 18 units of Dennis Smith Jr., the coach of the Hornets has found ways to compensate for these major absences. But the one that most impressed, the most “on fire” of all was even less expected, Nick Richards.
Mason Plumlee’s replacement signed the best performance of his young career. The pivot largely won his duel against his opposite counterpart Onyeka Okongwu, against whom he multiplied the finishes near the circle. Result, without missing a single shot, he finished with 20 points (9/9), 11 rebounds (career bests) and 2 blocks, for 33 evaluation and a +25 when he was on the floor.
” My teammates, they believe in me. They give me confidence every day and push me to give the best of myself. So it’s thanks to my teammates that I’m successful. When you have teammates supporting you for the right reasons… “says the hero of the evening.
Boosted by his teammates
This one considers to have started slowly in the first quarter and then I tried my best when they served me, telling me to do better and that we needed more energy on the field. And I did my best. I have to listen to them, so I feel like it’s really thanks to them that I’m successful right now. »
His performance confirms his cannon start to the season. He had signed a double-double in the first game with 19 points and 10 rebounds. After three games, the 24-year-old player has 15 points (69% on shots!) and 9 rebounds on average. By far, his best career averages so far. Last year, the Jamaican, drafted in 42nd position in 2020, had made 50 appearances for only 3 points on average in 7 minutes of play. He obviously worked a lot this summer and the change of coach, coupled with the departure of Montrezl Harrell opened doors for him.
“ We think we have talent in all areas with this squad. Any guy can be put in any situation and perform well […] Tonight was just super special because that’s where our season ended last year. (in play-in). With several guys down, it was a big challenge for us to come here and stick to the game plan. I’m very proud of the coach, very proud of the guys who were ready “, appreciates the best scorer, Kelly Oubre Jr.
