In the 2012 NBA Draft, the Bobcats selected Kentucky forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist with the second overall pick. Before landing Kidd-Gilchrist in the draft, Charlotte traded Corey Maggette to the Detroit Pistons for Ben Gordon.
Another move the team is considering is bringing in veteran forward Tracy McGrady according to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer via Twitter:
I hear Tracy McGrady might work out with the #Bobcats some, similar to how Josh Howard did. All informal and exploratory.
— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) September 4, 2012
A few years ago, the Bobcats appeared to be a team on the verge of becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference after clinching a playoff berth for the first time in franchise history.
The new-found success of the Bobcats was short-lived with Charlotte slipping back into mediocrity a season later and becoming arguably the worst team in the league once again. After selecting a few promising young players in the draft like Kemba Walker out of UConn, the Bobcats saw some light at the end of the tunnel, but ultimately produced the same results.
It remains to be seen whether or not Kidd-Gilchrist and Gordon will have an impact on the Bobcats next season, but it would be safe to say the team has improved. McGrady’s veteran presence would also be a step in the right direction even though he’s past his prime and struggles to stay healthy.
The Bobcats also signed former Laker Ramon Sessions in the off-season to help bolster the backcourt. Walker and Sessions will battle it out for the starting job at the point guard position.