NBA: 5 Second Year Players Poised For A Breakout Season

Apr 15, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Charlotte Hornets forward Noah Vonleh (11) holds the ball as Toronto Raptors guard Greivis Vasquez (21) and Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) defend at the Air Canada Centre. The Hornets won 92-87. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Noah Vonleh — Power Forward, Portland Trail Blazers

The Hornets expected Noah Vonleh to be a project player when they drafted him, but they didn’t expect him to miss nearly his whole first season.

I don’t know why Charlotte gave up on him so early, trading him to the Portland Trail Blazers in the offseason — but maybe his injury had something to do with it.

Maybe getting traded was a good thing for Vonleh. Like every young player, a great team environment and minutes are needed to devlop. The Hornets aren’t known for developing their players and Vonleh only played 10 minutes per game in Charlotte.

The Blazers are rebuilding now and Vonleh will probably get a fair shake this season. With LaMarcus Aldridge leaving Portland, the Blazers need a PF for the future. Noah Vonleh was drafted 9th overall for a reason. Maybe he’s that guy.

Next: Marcus Smart