Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (ankle) was called the team's "most improved player" by GM Rich Cho on Monday, the Charlotte Observer reports. "MKG was probably our most improved player," Cho said. "We were roughly .500 when he played with us and I believe we were

Kidd-Gilchrist (ankle) was called the team's "most improved player" by GM Rich Cho on Monday, the Charlotte Observer reports. "MKG was probably our most improved player," Cho said. "We were roughly .500 when he played with us and I believe we were 6-21 when he was not on the court."

Analysis:

Kidd-Gilchrist, who missed the final 11 games of the season, played in a career-low 55 contests, making 52 starts. Despite battling through injuries, the third-year forward posted career-highs in scoring (10.9 points per game), rebounds (7.6) and minutes (28.9). He also showed off an improved mid-range jumper, through he remains a non-factor as a perimeter shooter. After going 3-for-18 from the outside in his first two NBA seasons, Kidd-Gilchrist did not attempt a single three-pointer this season. The next step for Kidd-Gilchrist, who is one of the NBA's best defenders, will be expanding his range to ensure defenders have to show him at least some respect when he's away from the basket.