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Charlotte Hornets: 2017-18 NBA season preview

By Jen Julie Smith

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 03: Hugo the mascot of the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Time Warner Cable Arena on November 3, 2015 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 03: Hugo the mascot of the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Time Warner Cable Arena on November 3, 2015 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Brian Babineau/Getty Images
Photo by Brian Babineau/Getty Images /

Storyline 2: Rookie of the Year for Malik Monk?

Monk is already going to be playing with a chip on his shoulder since he was picked much later than he expected in the draft at No. 11. He said himself that he’s “trying to be Rookie of the Year.”

Although some media and fans have already anointed either Lonzo Ball or Markelle Fultz, they shouldn’t sleep on Monk. He knows what he wants, and appears determined to work hard to achieve the goals he’s set for himself and prove people wrong.

He’s very confident and is ready to shoot lights out. He made the following comments during a media conference call shortly after being drafted:

"“I think I’m a great fit. Kemba [Walker] is one of the best guards in the league right now, and he’s one of the best guards at getting in the lane and he can pass the ball. So, whenever he can get in the lane I’m ready to knock down that shot whenever.”"

There’s no question about Monk’s shooting abilities. The Kentucky Wildcat averaged 19.8 points per game his freshman year. He set a school record when he scored  47 points against University of North Carolina. Including the win against North Carolina, he scored 30 or more points four times last season.

Although Monk was a shooting guard in college, he believes that his versatility allows him to play both point and the 2.

"“I think they want me to do both,” Monk said. “I think I can do it pretty good.”"

That versatility would allow Monk to be a solid backup point guard to Walker, until Carter-Williams is up and running again. He could even see quality starter minutes alongside Walker, over Nicolas Batum.

Because Monk will be able have more opportunity to showcase his talent, at either the 1 or the 2, he has a good chance to prove to the league that he should be in the running for Rookie of the Year.

It still remains to be seen if Monk can be a two-way guard his first year. If he can achieve that, and with his prolific scoring, Rookie of the Year could be in his sights.

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