Report: Stephenson negatively affected Hibbert, might be problem in Charlotte
Lance Stephenson continues to be the center of attention, and not in a good way.
Following Wednesday's loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, Hornets head coach Steve Clifford talked about how Stephenson, who is averaging 9.7 points, 8.1 rebounds and 5.4 assists on 36 percent shooting, still has a long way to go before becoming a star.
Then on Thursday, Fox Sports 1's Bill Reiter chimed in.
Was told a few weeks ago Lance Stephenson, not Paul George or anyone else, impacted Hibbert so negatively last season. Looking accurate.
— Bill Reiter (@foxsportsreiter) November 27, 2014
Also told me that, from the start, folks in Charlotte started to realize in Lance they'd bitten off more than they'd planned on chewing.
— Bill Reiter (@foxsportsreiter) November 27, 2014
Hibbert's play, as well as the Pacers' 2013-14 campaign, famously went into the gutter in the second half after a torrid start. The big man has enjoyed a solid start to the season so far this year, however, keeping the undermanned Pacers afloat.
As for the Hornets, Stephenson has struggled to find his footing as the team has been arguably the league's most disappointing squad of the opening month. Charlotte, which made the playoffs last season and made an offseason splash by signing Stephenson to a three-year, $27-million contract, is off to a 4-12 start.
It's easy to point fingers at Stephenson right now, but he's one hot streak or Hornets winning streak away from quieting the critics. If "Born Ready" can't figure it out soon, however, and the Hornets don't get their season on track, expect the finger-pointing to continue.
The Hornets have lost seven straight and host the 12-2 Golden State Warriors Friday evening.