Josh Okogie’s Impending Return
The Charlotte Hornets are eagerly anticipating the return of Josh Okogie, a defensive stalwart whose presence could potentially shift the team’s fortunes.
Josh Okogie has been sidelined due to a lingering left hamstring strain, but he is now on the path to recovery. The Hornets recently announced that Okogie has commenced individual workouts after intensifying his rehabilitation efforts. The team’s medical staff is closely monitoring his progress and is set to reevaluate him in a fortnight.
Okogie’s absence has been keenly felt by the Hornets, as he has been sidelined for over a month since sustaining the injury against the Clippers on January 31. Acquired from the Phoenix Suns in January, Okogie has showcased glimpses of his defensive prowess in his brief seven-game appearance for Charlotte. Averaging 10 points per game and an impressive 2.7 steals per game on 43.4% shooting, Okogie has demonstrated his value as a defensive-minded wing.
One of Okogie’s standout performances came against the formidable LeBron James and the Lakers on January 27. In that game, he notched 19 points and four steals in a close 112-107 loss at the Spectrum Center, showcasing his defensive tenacity and impact on the court.
Having spent four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves and a subsequent two-and-a-half-year tenure with the Suns, Okogie has built a reputation as a defensive specialist rather than a prolific scorer. His return is eagerly awaited by the struggling Hornets, who have faced defensive challenges in his absence, notably conceding 145 points in a four-game stretch in late February. The team’s record stands at 14-45, underscoring the urgency for Okogie’s return to bolster their defensive capabilities.