Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's New Jumper Will Be Key to His 2014-15 Season

It's no secret that the Charlotte Hornets' Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has not quite lived up to expectations for a former second overall pick. While averaging 8.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, he has had serious offensive problems that have hurt his team. MKG's lack of a jump shot has led to a lack of spacing that has hampered the Hornets' ability to create driving lanes and post opportunities.

Over two seasons, MKG has made only three three-pointers and just 28 percent of his jump shots. There were obvious problems with his shot's mechanics from the second he was drafted, including a cocked elbow, a release hitch, bad balance and poor foot placement.

These were all challenges that assistant coach Mark Price sought to correct when he was hired in 2013.

The road has been a long one; I remember when video of Price working with MKG last summer went viral and everyone clamored that a fix was right around the corner. But while much better than his predraft form, last season's form produced one three-point make and a 29 percent average on jump shots.

Well, another offseason, another viral video of an improved jump shot from MKG. This video is admittedly much more promising, showing MKG with a straighter elbow, no hitch and a much more comfortable base.

Even this stroke isn't perfect, but I found myself with actual confidence in the shot as it left his hand, something I would never have felt last season. Obviously, this is in an empty gym with no defenders or pressure, but even this improvement is astounding considering where MKG started.

The former Kentucky forward has competition this season with the arrivals of Lance Stephenson and Marvin Williams, as well as rising expectations that will no longer be satiated by the argument of "he's only 20 years old and in his second season."

Coming into the league MKG was seen as a "safe pick" whose floor was the role of an energetic defensive stopper and slasher. Unfortunately, he hasn't developed into much more yet.

Just an ounce of confidence, courtesy of a reworked jump shot, could give MKG another element to his game that would help him become a more well-rounded player.

The second-year player already seems more confident, fielding questions at Hornets media day with sly confidence, according to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer: "Does it feel that different? Well, it’s going in a lot more,” Kidd-Gilchrist said with a big grin. “I believe in the process. I started in April and it feels great.”

That's the other good sign from Hornets camp. Coach Steve Clifford said in a private Q&A with Bonnell that MKG was one of three players who stayed in Charlotte all summer working on their game. He went on to use the word "transformed" when talking about MKG's mechanics, high praise from his coach.

As referenced by Bleacher Report lead NBA writer Jonathan Wasserman, no wing players have breakout seasons in their fourth season, meaning it is now or never for MKG.

It is a great sign that his shot is looking this improved entering his third season, which will clearly be pivotal to the trajectory of his career. An improved jump shot could mean the difference between being a role player or solid starter for MKG.

All stats courtesy of Basketball-Reference.com.

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