Charlotte Hornets star Lance Stephenson has insisted that he has no regrets over his decision to join the organisation, and is willing to be patient to work it out.
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Stephenson left the Indiana Pacers last summer as a free agent and opted to sign with the Hornets, with many believing that he would flourish in his new surroundings as it was expected that he would have a bigger role.
However, it hasn’t worked out as planned with the five-year NBA veteran struggling to find his best form and in turn the Hornets have struggled after an impressive season last year.
While the rumor mill has continued to turn all year with suggestions of a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, Stephenson remains a Hornets player for now and insists that he wants to be given time to prove that it was the right decision.
“Not at all,” Stephenson said when asked if he regretted the move, according to ESPN.
“I love this system. I love my coaches. I love my teammates. Some people come into systems and fit right in. Some people it takes time. I feel like with me, I’m going to take time.”
Stephenson signed a three-year deal worth $27m this past off-season and it was expected that he would help take the team to the next level as they looked to build on their previous success and become a playoff threat.
However, he has shot just 37.7 percent from the field and was dealt arguably the biggest blow of his Hornets career so far when Jeff Taylor and rookie PJ Hairston played ahead of him against the Boston Celtics earlier this week despite two starters being out injured.
Stephenson avoided causing any controversy by refusing to question coach Steve Clifford’s decision, and with averages of 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game, all down on last season’s numbers, he will be fully aware of the need to improve his play when he gets an opportunity.
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