NEW YORK,NY - MARCH 17 : Nicolas Batum #5 of the Charlotte Hornets drives to the basket against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 17, 2018 in New York,New York NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)Jesse D. Garrabrant/Getty Images

Report: Hornets' Nicolas Batum Diagnosed with Broken Finger in Season Opener

Scott PolacekOct 23, 2019

Charlotte Hornets swingman Nicolas Batum reportedly suffered a broken middle finger during Wednesday's game against the Chicago Bulls.

Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported the news.

This represents another setback for Batum after he dealt with Achilles issues in 2017-18 and played just 64 games. However, he bounced back last season and appeared in 75 games.

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When healthy, Batum gives the Hornets a consistent scorer on the wing who has averaged double-digit scoring totals every season but three in his career since he entered the league in 2008—including 2016-17, when he posted a career-best 15.1 points a night.

Batum also adds versatility to the lineup with his ability to play shooting guard or forward and can stretch the floor with his outside shooting.

Look for the Hornets to rely on a combination of players to fill in on the wing while the veteran is sidelined. Miles Bridges, Malik Monk, Dwayne Bacon and Marvin Williams will likely all see additional playing time.