Do the Bobcats make the playoffs? From what little I've seen of them, they seem to care a bit more playing better defense and not as selfishly on the offensive end. Probably signs of better coaching. I'm not sure if they'll keep it up all season.
I think at one point they had one of the better defensive stats in the league. Losing MKG is going to hurt that. I'm going to have to make it across the street for some games this winter.
Barring a real implosion with MKG out (which certainly possible even if it hasn't happened yet), they've got a great shot. Partially b/c it's the East and everyone outside of MIL (and I'd say CLE) has a shot.
Really, Kemba/Jefferson with some solid role players and guys that work hard on defense is a pretty solid foundation. Hendo's shot will fail him, but he gives a ####. Sessions is a fantastic 6th man. Well, except he can't shoot, but he gets to the line in bunches.
And of course, there's Mr. McRoberts. Sadly, I don't live in NC anymore, but I have to think he's got to be about everyone's favorite Bobcat by now. He's really perfect for this team.
Probably a bad year to make the playoffs, but it'll be really hard to be the one of the 10 worst teams in the league this year anyway, and if that doesn't happen, the pick is gone (though, obviously still plenty doable). They'll likely get a pair of mid-late 1st rounders from the Blazers and Pistons this year, that'll soften the sting a little. It'd would be great to string those picks out until they're unprotected, but I don't think POR/DET will cooperate on that.
Here's the CHA related draft pick debt, for those interested:
Charlotte Bobcats: Receives Portland Trail Blazers 2014 first-round pick (1-12 protected in 2014, 1-12 in 2015, unprotected in 2016) via Gerald Wallace trade on 2/24/11. Receives Detroit Pistons 2014 first-round pick (1-8 protected in 2014, top 1 protected in 2015, unprotected in 2016) via Ben Gordon trade on 6/26/12.
Chicago Bulls: Receives Charlotte’s 2014 first-round pick (1-10 protected in 2014, 1-8 in 2015, unprotected in 2016) via Tyrus Thomas trade on 2/18/10.
Read more at
http://www.hoopsworld.com/draft-pick-debt#YVYpAKm6MTdQJlE3.99