Hornets News: Bismack Biyombo on the Way Out?
By David Ramil
The Charlotte Hornets have struggled through a number of changes this year, particularly on the offensive end. But one change that seems to have worked out well is the demotion of 2011 draft pick Bismack Biyombo.
Biyombo, chosen 7th overall, was filled with potential that he has yet to realize. A sculpted 6’9 forward/center, he was a raw player that the franchise had hoped would be a future All-Star. Instead, he’s stuck on the bench and behind veteran journeyman Jason Maxiell.
Hornets head coach Steve Clifford explained the demotion to The Charlotte Observer:
"“In the preseason he just didn’t play very well. When he has the right energy level and thinking defense and rebounding, he has nights when he plays well. When he doesn’t do those things, the team doesn’t play as well when he’s out there.”"
The move has paid off for Maxiell, who has been just as surprised as Charlotte fans are about the move:
"“I expected to be more of a locker-room guy and mentor to Biz and Cody (Zeller). But the conditioning I did this summer paid off. They’ve asked me to be the first big man off the bench and I’ve tried to do my part. Being a 10-year vet, you should be in a position to be trusted by your coach. It’s my job to be kind of a mentor – to do my job but also help them do their jobs as well.”"
Clearly, that trust has been earned, as Clifford confirmed to the Observer:
"“He plays in a way that allows the group to function well. He’s very bright at both ends of the floor. Offensively, though he isn’t a very good scorer, he’s a great screener, and that helps us play team basketball. He’s our best post defender individually and by far our most physical player.”"
Maxiell’s numbers aren’t impressive (just 3 points and 1.4 rebounds per game) but as long as he’s contributing more energy – and consistency – than Biyombo, he’s likely to keep player.
Biyombo seemed to take the news in stride:
"“That’s the coach’s decision. I’ve got to live with that and respect it. But I’ve also got to get better. I think that’s what I always do and I’ll continue to do that. It could possibly be right. I have to keep learning, I have to keep getting better and I have to stay ready.”"
Biyombo averaged 2.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.12 blocks per game last season.