The Charlotte Hornets signed journeyman Damien Wilkins to add depth to the small forward position. The signing comes following the news that Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is expected to miss six months after having surgery on his right shoulder.
Wilkins, 35, believes he can bring experience and leadership to the Hornets roster. He last played in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2013. Last season, he was named an NBA D-League All-Star, while averaging 20.2 points per game playing with the Iowa Energy.
Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer has more from Buzz City’s camp, including Wilkins’ mentality going into the the new season:
- "'I’m not going to come in and try to be MKG. There is only one him – that’s why he makes the big bucks,' Wilkins said. 'I’ve just got to be myself and provide some leadership and experience; make plays on both ends of the floor.' Wilkins knows he’s not the athlete he was early in his NBA career or when he played college ball for N.C. State and Georgia. But having played in so many different professional basketball systems, he thinks he has an edge mentally. 'The more you play, the more the game slows down for you. You’re not rushing things anymore. The game is easier (because) everything is about quick decisions,' Wilkins said."
