3 things James Borrego can do to improve the Hornets

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 3: Head coach James Borrego of the Orlando Magic during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 3, 2015 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2015 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – APRIL 10: Dwight Howard /

1. Motivate Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard isn’t the dominant force he once was, but he’s still a valuable starter for the Hornets. Borrego needs him to put up another solid season if Charlotte are going to have any chance to make the playoffs.

The former All-Star Center was actually very effective for the Hornets last season. He played in 81 games and posted a very solid PER of 20.5. He achieved that level of play by largely sticking to his strengths. Howard can still dominate the defensive glass and provide his team with reasonable protection at the rim.

The key for Borrego will be to make sure Howard keeps doing those things well, and doesn’t try to do too much on the offensive end. Howard still sometimes buys into the fantasy that he is an effective post-up player. News flash: He’s not. Howard’s role on the offensive end should be restricted to setting solid screens and crashing the offensive glass for putbacks.

Next: 5 steps to revitalize the Pistons

Keeping Howard locked in might be Borrego’s biggest challenge of the year. The fact that the massive center is in a contract year might work to his new coach’s advantage. Maybe the thought of getting another contract with the Hornets will be enough to keep Howard in line. Borrego’s early success will largely rest on Howard’s broad shoulders.

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