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Will Charlotte Hornets’ Al Jefferson be even better?

By Andrew Melnick

Mar 28, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Charlotte Bobcats center Al Jefferson (25) reacts to a call in the first quarter as the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 110-105 in overtime at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Charlotte Bobcats center Al Jefferson (25) reacts to a call in the first quarter as the Orlando Magic beat the Charlotte Bobcats 110-105 in overtime at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Charlotte Hornets (then-Bobcats) went from having the second-worst record in the NBA during the 2012-2013 season to a playoff team last season, largely in thanks to the signing of big man Al Jefferson. The Hornets, looking for a way to improved, inked former Indiana Pacers’ guard Lance Stephenson to a three-year deal earlier this summer.

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Because of Jefferson’s supporting cast, Cody Taylor of Basketball Insiders believes Jefferson could be even better next season.

"Jefferson’s 21.8 points a game last season were largely in part to his superb offensive post moves due to being able to finish with both hands. While his offense has been a huge part of his game, defense wasn’t always one of his strong suits. Since arriving in Charlotte, Jefferson’s defense has improved largely thanks to head coach Steve Clifford’s defensive schemes. As pointed out by Dylan Murphy of Bleacher Report, Jefferson benefits by having a supporting cast of quick guards to defend the perimeter, which allows Jefferson to focus on the post where he can use his size and strength to clog the lane. The Hornets will continue to rely heavily on Jefferson this season and he’ll help them compete with the top teams in the East."

With out as much of a responsibility to score, Jefferson can take more efficient shots. Plys, he likely won’t see as many double teams with Stephenson manning the perimeter.

Jefferson averaged 21.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 50.9% from the field and 69.0% from the free throw line last season. In his 10-year career, Jefferson has put up 17.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 rebounds per game while shooting 50.1% from the floor and 71.3% from the charity stripe for the Hornets, Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz.

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