Recovered Kidd-Gilchrist returns with improved shooting range

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is back.

The swingman, who turned 23 today, is ready to go for Charlotte Hornets training camp.

He'll return to the starting lineup at the three spot and won't be on a minutes restriction to kick off the campaign.

The 6-foot-7 small forward suffered a torn labrum last preseason and was expected to miss the year. He instead recovered well ahead of schedule, returning in late January.

Seven games later, however, he re-injured his labrum and missed the rest of the season after undergoing a second surgery.

Kidd-Gilchrist was photographed Monday at media day appearing healthy and strong. Head coach Steve Clifford mentioned the wing has improved his shooting range - an issue for the player dating back to college.

Point guard Kemba Walker said he expects MKG to have a "huge year," which would be key for Charlotte in returning to the playoffs, after losing in the first round last season.

The former No. 2 overall pick averaged 12.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting 54 percent from the field and 43 percent from deep in the seven games he played last season, five of which were Charlotte victories.

Though it's a small sample size, those percentages represented a huge leap in his shooting accuracy. Kidd-Gilchrist shot 46.5 from the field and 16.7 percent from 3-point territory across his previous three seasons.