Josh Green takes big career leap in 2024-25

• Josh Green shot almost 40% from three for the Charlotte Hornets
• Green averaged more than one steal per game in 68 games in 2024-25
• Green's skill set aligns well with the direction of the modern NBA

Australian defensive guard Josh Green, demonstrated his versatility and steady development during his first season with the Charlotte Hornets.

The Sydney-born 24-year-old, established himself as a reliable starter, showcasing his diverse skill set on both ends of the court.

A New Beginning in Charlotte

After beginning his NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks, who selected him with the 18th pick in the 2020 draft, Green found himself with a fresh opportunity in Charlotte. His transition has been marked by consistent playing time and growing responsibility, appearing in 68 games during the 2024-25 season, with the majority as a starter.

Green's versatility was evident in his positional flexibility, splitting time between shooting guard and small forward positions. This adaptability has made him a valuable asset to a Hornets team looking to develop its young core.

Statistical Impact

Green's numbers reflect a player who contributes across multiple areas rather than dominating in any single category. Throughout the season, he averaged 7.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in approximately 27.8 minutes per game.

While these figures might appear modest at first glance, a deeper analysis reveals Green's efficiency and specialised contributions:

Shooting Efficiency

Green demonstrated strong shooting efficiency throughout much of the season:

• Field Goal Percentage: 42.8% (180-from-421)
• Three-Point Percentage: 39.1% (97-from-248)
• Free Throw Percentage: 68.1% (49-from-72)

His three-point shooting stands out as particularly impressive, with nearly 40% accuracy from beyond the arc. This skill has become increasingly valuable in the modern NBA, where floor spacing is essential for offensive success.

Defensive Contributions

Green consistently demonstrated his ability to create turnovers, recording 74 steals across his 68 games (approximately 1.1 per game). This disruptive presence on the perimeter adds significant value beyond what traditional box scores might indicate.

Standout Performances

March 14, 2025 vs. Spurs (Win)

Green's most complete game came in a victory against the San Antonio Spurs, where he recorded:

• 20 points on exceptional 7-from-11 shooting (63.6%)
• 6-from-9 from three-point range (66.7%)
• 4 steals
• 3 assists
• Just 0 turnovers

This performance showcased his ceiling as a 3-and-D wing who can impact games on both ends of the court.

November 16, 2024 vs. Bucks (Win)

Coincidentally on his 24th birthday, Green delivered a stellar all-around performance against Milwaukee:

• 15 points on efficient 5-from-8 shooting (62.5%)
• 3-from-4 from three-point range (75%)
• 5 rebounds
• 5 assists
• 3 steals
• 0 turnovers

This game demonstrated his potential as a complete player who can contribute in multiple facets while maintaining exceptional efficiency.

January 27, 2025 vs. Lakers (Loss)

Even in defeat, Green showed his value against the Lakers:

• 15 points on 4-from-6 shooting (66.7%)
• Perfect 4-from-4 from three-point range
• 3 steals
• Just 1 turnover

These performances illustrate Green's ability to impact games through efficient scoring, ball security, and disruptive defense.

‍

Consistency and Development Areas

Green's season has featured stretches of both consistency and struggles. His shooting, particularly from three-point range, has been his most reliable weapon. However, like many young players, consistency remains an area for improvement.

Scoring Variability

Green's scoring output fluctuated throughout the season:

• 20+ point games: 2
• 10+ point games: 28
• Games with fewer than 5 points: 25

This variance reflects both his evolving role in the offense and the natural development process of a young player finding his place in the league.

Ball Security Challenges

While Green has shown flashes of playmaking ability, turnovers occasionally hindered his effectiveness. In 11 games, he committed three or more turnovers, including a season-high four turnovers against the Lakers on February 19.

Reducing these turnovers would significantly enhance his overall impact, particularly as he takes on more ball-handling responsibilities.

Role and Usage

Green's role with Charlotte has primarily been as a complementary player rather than a primary scoring option. His usage reflects a player who understands his strengths and generally plays within himself:

• Averaged 6.2 field goal attempts per game
• Took 3.6 three-point attempts per game
• Rarely exceeded 10 shot attempts in a single contest

This judicious approach to shot selection has contributed to his solid efficiency numbers and suggests a player who prioritizes team success over individual statistics.

International Experience

Green's international background adds another dimension to his basketball identity. Representing Australia at the international level, he earned a bronze medal with the Boomers, gaining valuable experience competing alongside and against elite talent.

This international pedigree has likely contributed to his basketball IQ and understanding of team concepts, skills that translate well to the NBA environment.

The Path Forward

At just 24 years old, Green possesses significant room for growth. His current performance suggests a player who can develop into a valuable role player with specialised skills that contribute to winning basketball.

Strengths to Build Upon

1. Three-point shooting: Green's 39.1% accuracy from deep is a skill that will keep him on the court and create opportunities for teammates.
2. Defensive disruption: His ability to generate steals (1.1 per game) demonstrates active hands and good anticipation.
3. Efficiency: Green's shot selection and overall offensive approach indicate a player who understands his role and doesn't force the action.

Development Opportunities

1. Scoring consistency: Reducing the number of low-scoring outings would increase his overall impact.
2. Playmaking: While he's shown flashes as a distributor (2.5 assists per game high), there's room to grow as a secondary ball-handler.
3. Ball security: Reducing turnovers would enhance his effectiveness, particularly in close games.

Fitting into the Modern NBA

Green's skill set aligns well with the direction of the modern NBA, where versatile wings who can shoot and defend are highly valued. His ability to play multiple positions (SG/SF) provides lineup flexibility, and his three-point shooting contributes to spacing the floor.

For a Charlotte team in development mode, Green represents the type of complementary player who can enhance the effectiveness of primary scorers through his spacing, cutting, and defensive activity.