A bright spot has emerged from the Charlotte Hornets‘ tough season, and his name is Mark Williams.
The young center is putting up monster numbers lately, averaging an eye-popping 25 points and 14 rebounds over his last five games. He just dropped a career-high 38 points against the Grizzlies on Wednesday.
It’s been quite a journey for Williams. After missing the first 22 games this season, he’s bounced back in a big way, averaging 15.7 points per game – the best numbers of his career.
The Hornets might be struggling with an 11-29 record, but they’ve found their center of the future.
Williams isn’t doing it alone. He’s formed an impressive partnership with point guard LaMelo Ball, with the two showing special chemistry in the pick-and-roll game. Their teamwork has helped Williams become one of the most efficient big men in the league right now.
“Mark is an ultimate team guy and he’s trying to do everything he can to impact winning,” Hornets head coach Charles Lee told Sports Illustrated after Williams’ career night against Memphis.
The 22-year-old’s hot streak includes two 30-point games and a massive 19-point, 19-rebound double-double. He’s shooting an incredible 65.3% from the field during this stretch.
There’s more good news for Hornets fans. Second-year guard Nick Smith has stepped into the starting lineup and is making the most of his opportunity, averaging 14.3 points in his first three starts.
While playoffs aren’t in the cards this season, the Hornets are focused on building chemistry among their young core. With Williams emerging as a force in the middle, the future’s starting to look a bit brighter in Charlotte.
The key now? Staying healthy. Williams has never played more than 43 games in a season, but if he can stay on the court, he might just be the cornerstone the Hornets have been looking for.
