Published: December 22, 2008
Last year Julian Wright had a slow start to his rookie season only to become a big part of the Hornets run in the playoffs. While many fans and writers anticipated big things from Wright this season, he’s seen his minutes cut drastically in favour of veteran players such as Rasual Butler and Morris Peterson. Instead of pouting about this turn of events, Wright’s been working hard so when he gets his number called he’s ready to contribute.
Before a game against Toronto earlier this month, he talked with Hoops Addict about why he’s had fewer minutes, what he’s doing to prepare when his number is called and what kind of advice the veterans are giving him.
Ryan McNeill: You were a huge part of the Hornets run in the playoffs last year but this season you aren’t getting a lot of minutes. What’s the reason for this change?
Julian Wright: As a team we got a taste of success so from the offseason until now the organization has been putting the pieces together to win now. I look at it for me as trying to stay focused because I have future (with this team) and I have to continue working on my game. Even with some people looking at right now, I’m looking to the future. Even though my playing time has gone done a lot, I need to stay focused and be professional about it. It’s a long season so I just need to keep working hard.
McNeill: Speaking of working hard, when you came into the locker room before the game you were dripping with sweat. What are you doing to stay ready for when Coach Scott calls your number?
Wright: I just keep doing what I’ve been doing the whole time (I’ve been in the NBA). I made up my mind that I’m not going to change the way I play. I play with intensity and if I make mistakes being young… if that’s going to be held against me that’s fine because I’ve got to work out the kinks at some point. I may not get the game experience but I’ve got to keep working on my individual improvement and skill work. That’s the only thing I can do. The learning curve is high when you play so I’m just trying to stay focused. This offseason I worked so hard so I just have to remind myself that hard work pays off. It doesn’t guarantee you playing, but it makes you ready when you’re number is called.
McNeill: How are the veterans like Rasual Butler and Morris Peterson helping you stay grounded?
Wright: Just telling me to stay focused because it’s a long season. Kind of the same stuff as last season. Guys have been in and out of the rotation and I look at it as I’m just trying to stay ready. I feel what I bring to the team is energy and a lot of intangibles. It’s just a matter of being ready and being able to help the team when I get on the court.
McNeill: Thanks for your time, good luck with the rest of your season.
Wright: Thanks.
Photo Credit: ICON Sports Media
