Channel 9 talks offseason acquisitions with Hornets' radio analyst

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — From offseason acquisitions, through trades to building through the NBA Draft, excitement is buzzing around the 2017 Charlotte Hornets.

Sports anchor Phil Orban interviewed Hornets radio analyst Matt Carroll.

PO: There are a lot of changes to this Hornets roster. How soon are we going to know that those will pay off?

MC: You know Phil, there are a lot of changes, but some very good changes, changes that the Hornets are really excited about. I think you're going to see it sooner than later. No. 1 being, I think the biggest addition we have is Dwight Howard. He's a seasoned veteran, been around for a long time.

Couple rookies, Malik Monk, Dwayne Bacon. Excited to see them, tons of potential. They may take a little bit longer, but I think you're going to see some changes happening pretty quickly and getting comfortable very fast.

PO: Coach (Steve) Clifford is a guy who likes to temper expectations for these rookies, but on the other hand, there's a lot of buzz about these guys. What do you think they are going to be able to accomplish here early on?

MC: Any rookie, it's not easy. In the NBA, there's a lot to learn. It's a lot different than the college level, and like you said, Coach Clifford doesn't usually play a lot of rookies, though Frank Kaminsky was one of those guys who played quite a bit for a rookie. Malik Monk, I think he's going to get a good opportunity. He's a guy that we really need on this roster. He can really score, probably the best shooter coming into the draft this season, so I think you're going see him playing early and he should get a pretty good opportunity.

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