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Nick Smith Jr., Leaky Black Make Most of Quick Trip to Greensboro

Originally posted on FanNation All Hornets | By Will Eudy | Last updated 12/6/23

Over the course of the 82-game season, the Charlotte Hornets will be constantly managing their roster to ensure players' talents are maximized and guys get the playing time they need to develop.

That is precisely what was accomplished earlier this week when Charlotte made the decision to send Nick Smith Jr. and Leaky Black to the Hornets' G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm.

In what was Smith's first appearance with the Swarm, he put up 21 points to help lead the squad to a victory against Capital City on Tuesday. Black logged 15 points along with 12 rebounds.

This brief assignment ended when it was announced that the two had been recalled to the Charlotte Hornets late Tuesday afternoon. What ended up being a quick trip to the minor leagues had served its purpose to a tee.

Some fans may see the action of sending players to the G League as some sort of demotion. In reality, it is a chance for them to get game reps when they may not otherwise have the chance.

For example, the Hornets have yet to play a game since their contest with the Timberwolves on Saturday due to the In-Season Tournament. Playing with the Swarm allowed Nick Smith and Leaky Black to get some competitive, professional-level action under their belts without missing any time at the NBA level as well.

More assignments like this for players toward the bottom of the Charlotte Hornets' rotation will only serve to further develop and enhance their game.

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This article first appeared on FanNation All Hornets and was syndicated with permission.

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