After missing five games with a fractured finger, Charlotte Hornets rookie P.J. Washington has been sharp in two games since returning to the starting lineup.
The first-round pick tallied 14 points and five rebounds in his first game back on Friday against the Oklahoma City Thunder and he added 16 points and four rebounds on Sunday. Washington shot 50% (12-of-24) from the field in those two games.
Perhaps the only mistake by Washington came on Friday in a crucial moment against the Thunder. With just 1.9 seconds left in overtime, Washington had a chance to tie the game but stepped to the free-throw line and missed both shots resulting in a 104-102 loss.
Though Washington missed those two crucial free throws, the forward has been perhaps one of the most consistent first-year players this season and is having an impressive rookie campaign. In 30 games, Washington is averaging 12.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists.
Washington shook off the missed after the game and certainly didn’t let it affect him against the Grizzlies on Sunday. The Hornets have to be encouraged with his play this season as it appears as though he will be among the standouts in this year’s draft class.
Next up for the Hornets: A matchup on Tuesday against the Boston Celtics.
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