Before I get into this season’s preview, I wanted to inform everyong that Adam Morrison’s MRI showed a "partial to complete tear of the ACL." This will require surgery and likely leave him out for the whole season. That is a huge blow to the Bobcats, especially considering they already lost Sean May. More on that later, but for now here is your preview:
Charlotte Bobcats - Bobcat Bonfire
Last Years Record: 33-49
Key Losses: Sean May and Adam Morrison (both due to injury)
Key Additions: Jason Richardson, Jermarero Davidson
What significant moves were made during the off-season?
The biggest moves this off-season were the re-signing of Gerald Wallace, Walter Herrmann, and Matt Carroll along with the addition of Jason Richardson. Wallace and Herrmann will dominate the frontcourt with the help of Emeka Okafor, and with Morrison probably gone for the season, Matt Carroll needs to be strong off the bench.
What are the team’s biggest strengths?
The Bobcats biggest strength is their ability to play as a team. There is not one person that hogs the ball or makes all of the plays. Everyone gets involved on every play. Their ability to pass the ball around is what will help them win games this season.
What are the team’s biggest weaknesses?
Turnovers and scoring. There is so much talent on this team, but no one wants to take the shot. The team relies solely on Gerald Wallace and Raymond Felton to put up their points. If they can get Richardson and Herrmann more involved this season, then it shouldn’t be an issue, but Sam Vincent needs to figure out how to get them involved more. Then there are the turnovers. Yes, I just said that the Bobcats biggest strength is their ability to play as a team and pass the ball, but passing the ball too much can be a weakness as well. Simple passes and not too many of them will cut down on turnovers.
What are the goals for this team?
With a new coaching staff and several new players, the main goal of the Bobcats this season is to learn to play together. They should have gotten most of that taken care of in training camp and pre-season games, but it will take several regular season games to get them up to speed with each other. I think another goal is to make the playoffs this year. The talent is there, and if Coach Vincent can capitalize on it then there shouldn’t be a problem filling that 7th or 8th spot.
Predicted Record: 40-42
REASONING: They improved by 7 games from the 05-06 season to the 06-07 season. I see no reason that they can’t do the same this year.