Hornets coach Clifford on Lance Stephenson: 'Offensively, he has the ability to do everything'

It's safe to say Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford is a big fan of newly acquired shooting guard Lance Stephenson.

"Offensively, he really has the ability to do everything," Clifford told CBS Sports' James Herbert. "We knew it was important to try to add someone to play through offensively at the top of our roster."

Improving the offense is one of Clifford's goals for the Hornets this coming season. Charlotte seemingly has defense down pat, posting the fifth-best defensive rating in the league last season. Now it's about bettering its 24th-ranked offense.

"We have to get better on offense. To win big in this league, you have to play well in all aspects of the game," Clifford said. 

Adding Stephenson helps tremendously in that regard. Stephenson will likely take Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's place in the starting lineup, and while Kidd-Gilchrist is a strong wing defender, Stephenson is the far superior offensive player. As a member of the Indiana Pacers last season, Stephenson scored 13.8 points and dished out 4.6 assists. 

Stephenson profiles as a ball-dominant wing that can create looks for himself and others, which is something Charlotte lacked last season. Aside from point guard Kemba Walker, the Bobcats lacked a consistent perimeter shot-creator.