“Let me tell you, it was just wonderful,’’ Silas said. “I didn’t know that he could pass the ball that well or even see guys that were open like that. He hadn’t done it before, but he’s learning. To get a triple-double after 21 games, to me, that’s just out of this world.
“I just can’t think of enough good things to say about him and how well he’s going to do in the future.’’
Silas has been around the league long enough to know that one game doesn’t make or break a player.
As promising as Walker’s breakout game was, he’d like to see the rookie the consistently take charge.
The No. 9 overall pick in the draft out of Connecticut will get that chance to do that over the next four games with regular starting point guard D.J. Augustin already ruled out because of inflammation in his right toe.
The Bobcats will look to snap an eight-game losing streak Tuesday night when they begin a four-game road trip against the Los Angeles Lakers.
“Honestly, I’m still trying to learn this game,’’ Walker said. “I’m a very unselfish player. I don’t mind passing the ball at all. Coach told me he wanted me to get guys the ball and he showed me on film a lot of the opportunities that I have to get to the basket and distribute.’’
Walker admittedly struggled during his first three starts.
Silas urged him both publically and privately to do a better job of distributing the ball, hoping to get the point across.
“We talked to him about what was needed and we talked to him about how to distribute first and score second,’’ Silas said.
They watched hours of tape together.
It culminated in what Walker said was probably his best game, but he downplayed the effort by noting his team’s NBA-worst 3-18 record.
“I just want to win, whether that means getting assists or rebounds,’’ Walker said.
He said he is most comfortable playing the point guard position.
“I’ve been playing it my whole life,’’ Walker said. “I love playing point guard. But if I had to be out there playing the two spot it doesn’t matter. I’m still going to be doing the same thing. I’m still going to push the ball and I’m still going to run some plays — just maybe not as much.’’
