During Thursday’s shootaround ahead of their game against the Detroit Pistons, the Charlotte Hornets got a significant boost with the return of Mark Williams and Nick Richards to on-court activities. The duo worked together for the first time in weeks, participating in team drills and beginning to shake off the rust accumulated during their absences.
Head coach Charles Lee expressed his enthusiasm about seeing the pair back in action. “It’s great to see them reacquainted with the group and playing in the seam, making passes,” said Lee, who is in his first season leading the team.
Williams, the Hornets’ starting center, has been sidelined since Dec. 8 and has now resumed participating in team activities. Meanwhile, Richards, who has been recovering from a rib fracture sustained on Nov. 1, has been cleared to increase his individual training. Despite these promising developments, no timeline for their return to game action has been announced.
Injury Journeys: Williams and Richards
Williams has faced a tough road, missing significant time due to a strained tendon in his left foot suffered before training camp. This followed a previous injury-plagued season in which he appeared in only 19 games due to a back contusion. Williams has been gradually ramping up his activity, recently participating in three-on-three sessions.
Richards, who stepped up as the starting center during Williams’ absence, was off to the best start of his career before a collision led to a rib cartilage fracture. He was one of only three NBA players this season averaging 10 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks per game, alongside stars Anthony Davis and Victor Wembanyama.
Team Impact and Next Steps
In their absence, Moussa Diabate has made the most of his opportunity, contributing to significant improvements in the Hornets’ offensive rebounding and defensive efficiency. Despite this, Lee and the coaching staff are eager to see their regulars return.
Williams and Richards still face a gradual process of reconditioning and practice before being cleared for game action. Lee praised their determination, noting that both players have approached their rehab with focus and intensity.
“I’m proud of their progress,” Lee said. “Especially Mark, who’s been dealing with a longer rehab process, and Nick, who’s handled a rare and challenging injury. Their mindset has been exemplary.”
While expectations for Williams’ immediate return are tempered given his extended absence, the Hornets are optimistic about reintegrating both players and bolstering their frontcourt rotation.
