Lance Stephenson: 5 ways he’ll impact the Charlotte Hornets

Mar 28, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Lance Stephenson (1) brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards Verizon Center. Washington Wizards defeated the Indiana Pacers 91-78. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Lance Stephenson (1) brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards Verizon Center. Washington Wizards defeated the Indiana Pacers 91-78. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 1, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Indiana Pacers shooting guard Lance Stephenson (1) looks for an opening around Boston Celtics point guard Jerryd Bayless (11) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Indiana Pacers shooting guard Lance Stephenson (1) looks for an opening around Boston Celtics point guard Jerryd Bayless (11) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Energy and Effort

There may be some issues with Stephenson’s game when it is broken down and looked at very closely, but there will never be a problem found with his energy and effort. He always seemed to spark runs in his tenure with the Pacers, and his energy was contagious for his teammates. Charlotte hasn’t seemed to have that type of issue yet, but Stephenson is going to be a big addition to keep that mentality.

Stephenson’s game has improved over the past couple of seasons, but he has not lost his passion for the game. That is one thing that not many NBA players have once they reach the professional level, and it is something that cannot be taught. Michael Jordan has made it clear that he loves what Stephenson brings to the floor, and part of that is his heart.

Expect to see Stephenson lead the way emotionally for the Hornets all season long, and be the spark with they need it. He has a great feeling for the game and knows when he needs to make a big or flashy play, and he has the talent to go out there and make one. The Hornets brought him in to do everything that he could to help the team, and that is one area that will be seen and focused on in particular by the media.