MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Gerald Wallace's numbers weren't dramatically better than in past seasons, but he benefited greatly from Brown's coaching. He plays smarter and more precisely at both ends. He cut down on the gambles for steals that compromised teammates defensively and took fewer bad shots early in possessions.
MOST DISAPPOINTING PLAYER: Everyone was relieved when Adam Morrison was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers in early February. He melted under the pressure of being the third overall pick, and asked for a trade. Vladimir Radmanovic didn't have a great season, in exchange for Morrison, but he made as many big shots in a week as Morrison had the previous three months. FREE AGENT FOCUS: The major issue is point guard Raymond Felton's restricted status in July. D.J. Augustin was drafted as insurance against losing Felton, but he's been more effective as a shooter than as a distributor. F Sean May's contract also expires, but it seems unlikely the Bobcats would tender him a $3.6 million qualifying offer, as little as May has played this season.
PLAYER NEWS:
--C DeSagana Diop has been working out daily in Charlotte with various assistant coaches to improve his offensive game and conditioning. After playing little in Dallas early in the season, Diop wasn't in particularly good shape following the trade to the Bobcats.
--F Juwan Howard said he'd be happy to return to the Bobcats if they want him back. A 14-year pro, Howard maintains excellent conditioning, going through an offseason regimen that includes daily Yoga sessions.
--G D.J. Augustin has been invited to a USA Basketball training camp in July in Las Vegas. The camp is for young pros who might be considered for the national team in future years.
MEDICAL WATCH:
--G Raja Bell (calf strain) missed the last six games. Once the Bobcats were eliminated from the playoff race, there was little sense in pushing the injury in the final three games.
