Charlotte Hornets: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The Charlotte Hornets have experienced plenty of highs and lows since the turn of the century. Throughout it all, one thing has remained consistent — there’s always been a player who stepped up to carry the team. Whether it was Kemba Walker lighting up the scoreboard or LaMelo Ball becoming the face of the franchise, each season had its own standout performer. In this article, we’ll look at the best player from each season and explore how they impacted the Hornets during their time.

2000-01 Season - Jamal Mashburn

Stats: 20.1 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

In the 2000-01 season, Jamal Mashburn led the Charlotte Hornets, putting up 20.1 points per game while also contributing 7.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists. Mashburn’s versatility as a scorer, rebounder, and playmaker made him the key player for a Hornets team that finished 46-36 and made it to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. He was the go-to guy on offense, often creating his own shots and helping facilitate plays for his teammates.

Mashburn’s leadership and all-around game were crucial for the Hornets as they navigated a competitive Eastern Conference. Despite their solid regular season, the Hornets were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Milwaukee Bucks. Mashburn’s efforts, however, set a high standard for the team, as he showcased his ability to deliver consistently on both ends of the floor.

2001-02 Season - Baron Davis

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 8.5 APG, 4.3 RPG, 2.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

Baron Davis took over as the Hornets' leader during the 2001-02 season, averaging 18.1 points and 8.5 assists per game. Known for his explosiveness and court vision, Davis was a force on both ends of the floor, contributing 2.1 steals per game and earning his first All-Star appearance. His ability to score, dish out assists, and disrupt opponents defensively made him the engine behind the team’s success.

The Hornets finished with a 44-38 record, and Davis’ leadership guided them to the second round of the playoffs once again. Though they were knocked out in the conference semifinals, Davis cemented his status as one of the top point guards in the league during this season, pushing the Hornets to be a competitive team in a tough conference.

2002-03 Season - Baron Davis

Stats: 17.1 PPG, 6.4 APG, 3.7 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

In the 2002-03 season, Baron Davis led the Hornets with 17.1 points and 6.4 assists per game. Despite being limited to 50 games due to a knee injury, Davis was still a key player, especially on defense, with 1.8 steals per game. His ability to score and create for his teammates kept the team competitive as they made the playoffs.

Davis helped the Hornets finish with a solid 47-35 record, but the team was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Even though injuries slowed him down, Davis remained the team's most impactful player on both ends of the floor.

2003-04 Season - Baron Davis

Stats: 22.9 PPG, 7.5 APG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2003-04 season was a breakout year for Baron Davis. He averaged a career-high 22.9 points per game and led the league in steals with 2.4 per game, earning his second All-Star appearance and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. Davis was the driving force behind the Hornets’ offense, contributing with 7.5 assists per game and making key plays in crunch time.

Despite his efforts, the Hornets finished with a 41-41 record and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Davis’ all-around play and defensive presence were critical, but the team fell short of making a deep postseason run.

2004-05 Season - Emeka Okafor

Stats: 15.1 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Achievements and Awards: Rookie of the Year

Emeka Okafor was the standout player for the Charlotte Bobcats during their inaugural 2004-05 season. He averaged 15.1 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, quickly establishing himself as a dominant presence in the paint. His rebounding and defensive abilities earned him the Rookie of the Year award, making him one of the most promising young big men in the league.

Okafor's efforts helped solidify the foundation for the Bobcats as they navigated their first season in the NBA. He was a key reason why the team had any level of competitiveness despite finishing with an 18-64 record.

2005-06 Season - Gerald Wallace

Stats: 15.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 1.7 APG, 2.5 SPG, 2.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Gerald Wallace stepped up as the leader for the Bobcats during the 2005-06 season. Known for his defensive versatility, Wallace put up impressive stats across the board, including 15.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game. His ability to play both ends of the floor made him one of the most exciting players in the lineup.

While the team still struggled, finishing with a 26-56 record, Wallace’s defensive prowess and energy on the court were key factors that kept the Bobcats competitive on many nights.

2006-07 Season - Gerald Wallace

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, 2.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Gerald Wallace was the clear leader for the Charlotte Bobcats during the 2006-07 season. He averaged 18.1 points per game, along with 7.2 rebounds, and was a defensive menace with 2.0 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. Known for his all-out hustle, Wallace earned the nickname "Crash" for his relentless effort on both ends of the floor. He was the team's most consistent player, often doing the dirty work that kept them competitive.

The Bobcats finished with a 33-49 record, missing the playoffs, but Wallace’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways was a big reason they stayed competitive in many matchups. His all-around play and leadership were key factors in the team’s development during these early years of the franchise.

2007-08 Season - Gerald Wallace

Stats: 19.4 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Wallace continued to lead the Bobcats in the 2007-08 season, elevating his scoring to 19.4 points per game while still contributing 6.0 rebounds and 2.1 steals per game. His defensive versatility and ability to play multiple positions made him one of the most valuable players on the roster. Wallace’s energy and leadership were once again the driving forces for the team, as he carried them on both ends of the floor.

The Bobcats improved slightly to a 32-50 record, but they still found themselves out of playoff contention. Wallace’s consistent production and hustle remained bright spots, and his performance established him as one of the best two-way players in the league during this period.

2008-09 Season - Gerald Wallace

Stats: 16.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Gerald Wallace continued to be the backbone of the Charlotte Bobcats during the 2008-09 season, averaging 16.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, and contributing across the board with his all-around play. Known for his relentless energy and defensive presence, Wallace was a standout player on a team still finding its way. His 1.7 steals and 1.1 blocks per game highlighted his impact on defense, making him the team’s most consistent performer.

They finished the season with a 35-47 record, missing the playoffs once again, but Wallace’s leadership and hustle were crucial in keeping them competitive. He was the go-to player in both offense and defense, setting the tone for his teammates with his aggressive play.

2009-10 Season - Gerald Wallace

Stats: 18.2 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-Defensive First Team

Gerald Wallace had a career year in 2009-10, becoming the first and only Bobcats player to be selected to an All-Star Game. He averaged a double-double with 18.2 points and 10.0 rebounds per game, along with his usual stellar defense, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team. Wallace’s performance helped the Bobcats reach their first-ever playoff appearance, finishing the season with a franchise-best 44-38 record.

Though the Orlando Magic swept them in the first round of the playoffs, Wallace’s All-Star season cemented his place as one of the best two-way players in the league during his time with the Bobcats. His athleticism and defensive prowess made him the heart and soul of the team, leading them to their first taste of success.

2010-11 Season - Stephen Jackson

Stats: 18.5 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Stephen Jackson was the standout player for the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2010-11 season, leading the team in scoring with 18.5 points per game. Known for his scoring and toughness, Jackson contributed across the board with 4.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. His leadership and ability to hit big shots kept the Bobcats competitive in many games as they fought through a challenging season.

The Bobcats finished with a 34-48 record and missed the playoffs, but Jackson’s performance was a bright spot. His experience and scoring ability made him the go-to player for the team, even as the team looked to retool and build for the future.

2011-12 Season - Gerald Henderson

Stats: 15.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Gerald Henderson took on a bigger role for the Bobcats during the 2011-12 season, leading the team with 15.1 points per game. Known for his athleticism and slashing ability, Henderson provided solid production on both ends of the floor, adding 4.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. His development as a scorer and defender made him one of the few bright spots on a struggling Bobcats team.

The Bobcats had a tough season, finishing with the worst record in NBA history at 7-59. While it was a difficult year for the franchise, Henderson’s improvement gave the team hope as they looked ahead to future seasons with a focus on rebuilding.

2012-13 Season - Kemba Walker

Stats: 17.7 PPG, 5.7 APG, 3.5 RPG, 2.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Kemba Walker stepped up as the leader of the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2012-13 season, averaging 17.7 points and 5.7 assists per game. His ability to score and create plays for his teammates made him the focal point of the offense. Walker's leadership helped the Bobcats improve from the previous season, but the team still struggled to a 21-61 record.

Walker’s growth as a player was evident, as he became more comfortable taking on the responsibilities of being the team's star. His quickness and scoring ability, combined with his knack for getting steals (averaging 2.0 per game), gave the Bobcats a reliable leader to build around moving forward.

2013-14 Season - Al Jefferson

Stats: 21.8 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-NBA Third Team

Al Jefferson had a dominant season for the Charlotte Bobcats in 2013-14, averaging 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. His scoring and rebounding helped lead them to a 43-39 record, marking their first playoff appearance in several years. Jefferson was named to the All-NBA Third Team, becoming the cornerstone of the franchise with his polished post moves and ability to control the game in the paint.

While the Bobcats were swept in the first round by the Miami Heat, Jefferson’s impact on the court gave the Bobcats hope for the future. His strong play throughout the season cemented his role as the team’s star and one of the best big men in the league during that time.

Related: Chicago Bulls: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

2014-15 Season - Al Jefferson

Stats: 16.6 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Al Jefferson was the standout player for the Charlotte Hornets during the 2014-15 season, leading the team with 16.6 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. He was the focal point of their offense, consistently producing in the post and providing a reliable inside presence. Jefferson's ability to score in the paint helped the Hornets stay competitive, but the team struggled, finishing with a 33-49 record and missing the playoffs.

Although the Hornets didn’t reach their goals, Jefferson’s consistent scoring and rebounding made him the team’s key player. His leadership and experience helped guide younger players, while his inside game remained a significant asset throughout the season.

2015-16 Season - Kemba Walker

Stats: 20.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Kemba Walker took the reins as the Hornets’ leader in the 2015-16 season, averaging 20.9 points and 5.2 assists per game. He was the driving force behind the team's offense, consistently creating shots for himself and his teammates. Walker’s ability to score from deep and his quickness on the court made him one of the most dangerous guards in the league that year.

The Hornets finished with a 48-34 record, making the playoffs and pushing the Miami Heat to seven games in the first round. Walker’s leadership and playmaking were critical to the Hornets' success, helping them return to playoff contention after a disappointing 2014-15 season.

2017-18 Season - Kemba Walker

Stats: 22.1 PPG, 5.6 APG, 3.1 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

Kemba Walker had another impressive season in 2017-18, leading the Hornets with 22.1 points per game while dishing out 5.6 assists. He was the engine of the team’s offense, consistently stepping up as the primary scoring option and earning an All-Star selection for the second consecutive year. Walker's ability to create his own shot and make plays for others made him the centerpiece of the Hornets' attack, even though the team struggled overall.

The Hornets finished with a 36-46 record, missing the playoffs. Walker's leadership on the court was crucial, and his relentless effort kept the team competitive in many games. He continued to solidify his status as the face of the franchise during this period, delivering standout performances even in a tough season.

2018-19 Season - Kemba Walker

Stats: 25.6 PPG, 5.9 APG, 4.4 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Kemba Walker took his game to another level in 2018-19, averaging a career-high 25.6 points per game while also contributing 5.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds. His ability to score from all three levels made him one of the league's most dynamic point guards. Walker earned another All-Star nod and was named to the All-NBA Third Team for the first time in his career, a recognition of his outstanding play throughout the season.

Although the Hornets narrowly missed the playoffs with a 39-43 record, Walker’s individual brilliance was on full display. He consistently carried the team in scoring and playmaking, often delivering clutch performances that kept the Hornets in the playoff hunt until the final days of the season. Walker’s departure in the offseason marked the end of an era for the Hornets, as he left behind a legacy as one of the best players in franchise history.

2019-20 Season - Devonte' Graham

Stats: 18.2 PPG, 7.5 APG, 3.4 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

Devonte' Graham emerged as the breakout star for the Hornets during the 2019-20 season. After playing a minor role in his rookie year, Graham exploded onto the scene, averaging 18.2 points and 7.5 assists per game, becoming the Hornets' go-to scorer and playmaker. His ability to knock down shots from deep—making 3.5 three-pointers per game—transformed him into one of the league's most surprising young guards.

Although the Hornets finished the season with a 23-42 record, Graham's development was one of the bright spots for the franchise. His confidence grew as the season progressed, and he quickly established himself as a foundational piece for the Hornets' future. Graham’s improvement also showed how effective he could be as a floor general, despite the team's overall struggles.

2020-21 Season - LaMelo Ball

Stats: 15.7 PPG, 6.1 APG, 5.9 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: NBA Rookie of the Year, NBA All-Rookie First Team

LaMelo Ball took the league by storm in his rookie season, living up to the hype that surrounded him before the draft. With his incredible court vision, flashy passing, and versatility, Ball averaged 15.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds, quickly becoming the heart of the Hornets offense. His exciting style of play reinvigorated the fan base and earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, along with a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team, despite missing 21 games due to injury.

Under Ball's leadership, the Hornets showed significant improvement, finishing with a 33-39 record and securing a spot in the play-in tournament. LaMelo’s poise and maturity as a 19-year-old rookie were remarkable, and he became the face of the franchise moving forward. His impact on both ends of the floor, combined with his elite playmaking skills, solidified his place as the Hornets' most important player.

2021-22 Season - LaMelo Ball

Stats: 20.1 PPG, 7.6 APG, 6.7 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements and Awards: All-Star

LaMelo Ball continued to evolve as the leader of the Hornets in his sophomore season, increasing his scoring to 20.1 points per game while also boosting his assists and rebounds. His flashy style of play, combined with his ability to score, pass, and defend, earned him his first All-Star selection, solidifying his status as one of the NBA’s rising stars.

The Hornets finished with a 43-39 record, qualifying for the play-in tournament for the second consecutive year. Although they failed to make the playoffs, LaMelo's growth was undeniable, and he became the centerpiece of the Hornets' future plans. His ability to take over games with his dynamic playmaking and scoring made him one of the most exciting young players in the league.

2022-23 Season - Terry Rozier

Stats: 21.1 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.1 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements and Awards: None

With LaMelo Ball sidelined for a large portion of the 2022-23 season due to injury, Terry Rozier stepped up as the Hornets’ leading scorer and primary playmaker. Rozier averaged 21.1 points per game, showing his ability to carry the scoring load while also contributing 5.1 assists per game. His consistency on the offensive end kept the Hornets competitive despite numerous injuries throughout the season.

The Hornets struggled without LaMelo, finishing with a 27-55 record and missing the playoffs. Even in a difficult season, Rozier's scoring and leadership on the court were crucial for the Hornets, proving he could be a reliable offensive option when needed.

2023-24 Season - Brandon Miller

Stats: 17.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements and Awards: NBA All-Rookie First Team

Brandon Miller had an impressive rookie season for the Hornets, averaging 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. His ability to score from multiple spots on the floor, coupled with his shooting from deep (37.3% from three-point range), made him one of the brightest spots in a tough season for the Hornets. Miller’s production spiked after the All-Star break, where he posted 18.5 points per game on improved shooting efficiency.

Miller earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team and finished third in the Rookie of the Year voting, showing his potential to become a core piece for the Hornets. As LaMelo Ball dealt with injuries, Miller took on a more significant role and consistently delivered, giving hope to the Hornets' future with him as a primary scorer.

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