Although I give him credit when he earns it, P.J. Washington failed the Hornets again in yesterday’s loss to the Detroit Pistons. While losing the previous game 124-115 on the road to one of the best teams in the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks, is certainly understandable, it is unacceptable to lose 118-112 to the Detroit Pistons, the worst team in the Eastern Conference. With this loss, though, the Hornets are only a half-game ahead of the Pistons in the Eastern Conference, meaning the team is approaching becoming the worst team in the Eastern Conference. Given this team’s talent, led by the sensational LaMelo Ball, losing to the Pistons should be beneath the Hornets.
LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier led the Hornets in scoring. Ball had 23 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists in 40 minutes. Rozier had 23 points, one assist, and six rebounds in 35 minutes. Other players, such as Jalen McDaniels, Gordon Hayward, and Mason Plumlee, had solid performances. P.J. Washington, unfortunately, had another disappointing game: seven points, three assists, and two rebounds in 37 minutes.
Related: P.J. Washington’s shooting must improve for the Charlotte Hornets
Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
P.J. Washington failed the Hornets in a loss to the Pistons
I have repeatedly argued that the Hornets need P.J. Washington to perform like the first-round draft pick he is. My criticism of Washington is not because I believe he cannot produce quality performances each night. Just the opposite, my consistent criticism of P.J. results from my belief that he can be a star in the NBA. He has too many performances like yesterday’s that are frustrating for honest sports writers, analysts, journalists, and Charlotte Hornets fans.
This piece is not a mean-spirited attack on P.J. Washington; it is a call for him to meet the challenge of his potential. I will continue to challenge Washington to be the best he can be.
P.J. and his teammates will return home tomorrow to face the Orlando Magic.
