Kenny Atkinson, who sources say will be the Charlotte Hornets’ new head coach, has a reputation for developing young players.
Then again, so did James Borrego, who Hornets owner Michael Jordan and general manager Mitch Kupchak fired after Borrego directed Charlotte to four straight non-playoff seasons.
How well Atkinson does as Borrego’s replacement depends on two things more than anything else.
First, the new coach must figure out how to harness LaMelo Ball’s superstar potential.
Second, he has to get the Hornets playing better defense.