Simpson produced two points (1-2 FG, 0-1 3Pt), three rebounds and one assist across seven minutes during Monday's 114-93 loss to Minnesota.
Simpson played seven minutes in the loss, stepping onto an NBA court for the first time in a regular-season game. The Hornets were never in the contest, allowing their second and third units to see some extra playing time. It is a momentous occasion for any rookie when they first get a taste of what it's like to play in the NBA, but that is where the news ends given Simpson is far from being an every-night part of the rotation.
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Hornets' KJ Simpson: Signs two-way pact with Charlotte
Rotowire
The Hornets signed Simpson (hamstring) to a two-way contract Sunday, Michael Scotto of USA Today reports.
The No. 42 overall pick of the 2024 NBA Draft will be eligible to spend time with both the Hornets and their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm, during his rookie season. Simpson suffered a hamstring injury prior to the draft and will miss the Las Vegas Summer League, but he should be good to go for training camp. The 21-year-old point guard averaged 19.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 2.1 three-pointers and 1.6 steals in 35.1 minutes per game over 37 appearances during his final season of college with Colorado while shooting 43.4 percent from downtown.
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Hornets' KJ Simpson: To miss Summer League
Rotowire
Simpson suffered a hamstring injury during the pre-draft process and is expected to miss Summer League in order to rehab.
This is an unfortunate injury for Simpson, who undoubtedly would've benefitted from seeing game action during Summer League. However, the team notes the rookie guard is expected to be healthy by the fall and should be available for the start of training camp.
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Hornets' KJ Simpson: Drafted by Charlotte at No. 42
Rotowire
Simpson was selected by the Hornets with the 42nd overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
A junior out of Colorado, Simpson enjoyed a strong 2023-24 season and was named to the 2023-24 All-Pac-12 First Team. He had a breakout campaign shooting the ball, hitting 43.4 percent of his 4.9 three-point attempts per game, helping fuel his 19.7 points per game. He can also make tough baskets around the rim. Simpson doesn't have to be glued to the ball either, as he demonstrated great off-ball movement in college. Defense is a weak point for the 6-foot-0 prospect, but the Hornets are hoping he can do everything else well.
