Coach Lee’s Confidence in KJ Simpson’s Development
After a tough loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets Head Coach Charles Lee expressed unwavering confidence in the potential of second-year guard KJ Simpson. “Oh, extremely confident in KJ,” Lee stated when asked about Simpson’s performance. “He’s going into season number two, and I think when we drafted him we were confident in his abilities to grow and help us build this thing.”
Drafting Potential
The Hornets made a calculated decision when they selected Simpson with the 42nd overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, following his impressive three-year stint at the University of Colorado. During his final season, Simpson showcased his scoring prowess, averaging 19.7 points per game while shooting 47.5% from the field and an impressive 43.4% from three-point range. His collegiate success laid the groundwork for high expectations as he transitioned to the professional level.
Navigating the NBA Learning Curve
Simpson began his NBA journey on a two-way contract, which allowed him to split time between the Hornets and their G-League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm. In nine games with the Swarm, he made a significant impact, averaging 17.4 points per game. However, unforeseen circumstances would soon thrust him into a more prominent role with the Hornets.
Increased Responsibility Amid Injuries
The Hornets faced a challenging situation as injuries to key players, including LaMelo Ball and Tre Mann, left their guard rotation thin. As a result, Simpson was called upon to step up, playing in 36 games for the Hornets during the season. This unexpected opportunity allowed him to gain invaluable experience, even if it came earlier than the team had initially planned.
Looking Ahead
As the Hornets move forward, Coach Lee’s faith in Simpson remains a cornerstone of their development strategy. With a strong foundation already in place and a clear path for growth, the Hornets are optimistic about what the future holds for their young guard. Simpson’s journey is one to watch as he continues to evolve in the league, embodying the resilience and potential that the organization believes in.
