Charlotte Hornets: Summer League Stock Report

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LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 06: Willy Hernangomez #41 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts after getting a foul call on a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2018 NBA Summer League at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 6, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Hornets defeated the Thunder 88-87. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

Stock Up: Willy Hernangomez

There may not have been a player who improved his stock more than center Willy Hernangomez. The Hornets traded with the New York Knicks for Hernangomez midway through last season and through 22 games averaged 11.9 minutes, 6.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.

This year though, Hernangomez looks determined to return to the form he had during his rookie season, a year that he earned All-Rookie First Team honors. This summer league was a good starting point as he had a double-double in every game he played. He finished averaging 18.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.8 blocks per game while shooting 50% from the field.

The 24-year old will be competing for playing time at the position with Cody Zeller and Bismark Biyombo. At the start of the season, Zeller will likely be the starter but if Hernangomez has a strong preseason, it will be hard to keep him on the bench. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him eventually work his way into a starting role.

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