Hornets bolster defensive capabilities with addition of former Kentucky Wildcat Nick Richards

The Charlotte Hornets continue to make moves to bolster their developing roster. The team recently announced they have acquired Nick Richards, the 42nd overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, from New Orleans in exchange for a 2024 second-round pick.

After thee seasons at the University of Kentucky, Richards finished third in school history in career field goal percentage (62.8%), was named to the All-SEC First Team and the SEC All-Defensive Team in 2019. During that year he averaged 14.0 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.1 blocks in 29.7 minutes over 31 games played.

The Kingston Jamaica native is already tuned in to what is expected of him by his new employer. I think Charlotte is expecting high energy, high energy, athletic big, got to run the floor all the time, got to give 110 percent on each possession," Richards said.

Richards led the SEC and ranked fourth nationally in field goal percentage (64.4%), while ranking second in the conference in blocks which should be a big upside for the Hornets who are need of increased rim protection.

Richards is also taking comfort in the fact that he has good friend on the roster to help ease the stressful period of getting up to speed with the pro-level pace. Former Kentucky star PJ Washington will be a helpful guide on Richards' journey into pro basketball. “I’m going to be more comfortable knowing that one of my friends is on the team," Richards said.

"Someone that I can adjust with. PJ and I have talked already, he’s excited for me to come and I’m excited to be there.