January 19, 2016 – The Charlotte Hornets announced today that forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has been cleared for full-contact practice by team orthopedist Dr. Marcus Cook. The fourth-year player suffered a torn labrum in his right shoulder on Oct. 3, 2015, in a preseason game at Orlando and underwent successful surgery performed by Dr. Cook on Oct. 6. As part of his rehabilitation, Kidd-Gilchrist has participated in non-contact practice for the past two weeks. There is no timetable for Kidd-Gilchrist’s return to the active roster.

The 6-7 forward averaged career bests in points (10.9), rebounds (7.6) and minutes (28.9) in 55 games (52 starts) during the 2014-15 season. His 7.6 rebounds per game ranked first among all small forwards in the NBA. Last season, he registered career highs of 12 double-doubles and 35 double-figure scoring games after totaling one and 14, respectively, the previous season. The University of Kentucky product holds career averages of 9.0 points and 6.1 rebounds in 26.2 minutes per game in 195 career appearances (191 starts) in three NBA seasons.