Much like the Carolina Panthers experienced with the loss of Kelvin Benjamin, after hurting his shoulder during their first preseason game, Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Hornets’ forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will need to have surgery on his shoulder and could be sidelined up to six months.
Charlotte's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will need shoulder surgery and be sidelined six months, league source tells Yahoo Sports.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) October 5, 2015
Although the Hornets haven’t officially announced MKG’s prognosis, the fact that they signed forward Damien Wilkins – a former player at NC State and 10-year NBA vet – could be a sign.
Can confirm reports @hornets are bringing in former N.C. State player Damien Wilkins for a preseason look.
— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) October 5, 2015
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist injured his shoulder during this play against Orlando.
For those wondering about MKG, this is the play he injured his shoulder on. Hard, hard fall. #Hornets pic.twitter.com/JFuc6EBxI0
— Chris Kroeger (@Kroeger) October 4, 2015
If true, this is a tough blow to a Hornets squad who had their eyes set firmly on a playoff appearance and run after several off-season acquisitions, including Jeremy Lin, Nicolas Batum and Jeremy Lamb.