Five takeaways from the Hornets’ homestand

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 05: Teammates Malik Monk #1 and Devonte' Graham #4 of the Charlotte Hornets react after a play against the Indiana Pacers during their game at Spectrum Center on November 05, 2019 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, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 05: Teammates Malik Monk #1 and Devonte' Graham #4 of the Charlotte Hornets react after a play against the Indiana Pacers during their game at Spectrum Center on November 05, 2019 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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Devonte’ Graham is the real deal

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 07: Devonte’ Graham #4 of the Charlotte Hornets tries to get away from Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics during their game at Spectrum Center on November 07, 2019 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, NORTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 07: Devonte’ Graham #4 of the Charlotte Hornets tries to get away from Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics during their game at Spectrum Center on November 07, 2019 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) /

Easily the hottest Hornet right out of the gate, Devonte’ Graham has continued his stellar play throughout the early portion of the schedule. In nine games, Graham is averaging 17.8 points per game, as well as 7.3 assists–both tops among Hornets players. Less than a year ago, he was bouncing back-and-forth between Charlotte, and the team’s G-League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm. Now, it seems as though the 24-year-old has found his place with the Hornets.

Graham was dominant off the bench during the first few games of the season, however, he had shown similar flashes during his rookie season last year. This year, he has consistently played extremely well. Perhaps the most important element of his game that has taken his game to the next level is his perimeter shooting. After shooting just 28% from three last year, he’s shooting a much-improved 41.5% so far this season. Graham has improved his shooting numbers all-around, and he’s been rewarded for it. His minutes have increased dramatically this season, and he’s been thrust into game-deciding situations on several occasions, including his game-winning free throws on Tuesday night in overtime.