Charlotte Hornets head coach James Borrego on Wednesday explained what the team wants to see from rookie James Bouknight when he is on assignment with the Greensboro Swarm in the NBA G League.
Bouknight has played sparingly to this point of the season with the Hornets, logging just six appearances for a total of nine minutes. The team has sent him to the Swarm on occasion in order to get playing time, and Bouknight has performed well during those contests.
The 11th overall pick is averaging 29 points, eight rebounds, 3.7 assists, two steals and one blocked shot in three games with the Swarm. He last played with the Swarm Nov. 19-20, producing back-to-back 27-point performances versus the Lakeland Magic.
The Hornets want to see Bouknight continue to grow and build good habits as a young player. The opportunity to play with the Swarm will also help him understand how he should play on a nightly basis, Borrego said.
He is understanding that watching these NBA games live in person you got to bring it every night. You’re playing against the best every single night — you cannot relax. You can’t take a possession off, a quarter off. You have to play with that high motor consistently. I’m looking for that as we evaluate him in the G League. His defense and just his offensive habits overall. He needs those reps. We’ll continue to evaluate him and make sure he is getting those reps with us or in Greensboro but so far, he is off to a good start.
Borrego said last month the team firmly believes Bouknight figures into its long-term plans but will need to find playing time for him. The organization likes what he brings and it figures to be only a matter of time before he can crack the rotation.
The Hornets know exactly what Bouknight can provide on a nightly basis given his ability on offense so it seems like only a matter of time before they turn him loose. In the meantime, Bouknight will undoubtedly stay ready for when his number is eventually called.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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