Even though the victory was sweet, it’s time to face some harsher realities.
The Charlotte Hornets did get a win against a tough Eastern Conference team, but this isn’t something that the entire fanbase should be celebrating.
For the Hornets to win, it took Gordon Hayward to play the best basketball of his life, and some roleplayers to step in and make an impact, AND for their best player to have an off night, just to squeeze by in the final minutes of play. This is something that shouldn’t be hailed.
In another reality, it is time to start LaMelo Ball over Devonte’ Graham. Tonight’s win had absolutely nothing to do with his performance, which was lackluster all the way around. I don’t care that he ended with 11 points, five of those came from the line. This game is yet another time where Graham shoots poorly, with an awful 14 percent from the floor. Graham’s minutes need to be given to Ball and it is a clear fact by now.
The Martin twins both logged 11 minutes and their efficiency on the court was lackluster, I think it’s time to give some of those minutes to Jalen McDaniels. McDaniels showed out in the preseason and the Hornets should be rolling the dice on this younger player and seeing what he can do for the franchise.
Overall it was a good win but the Hornets have much work to do before we are in the promised land.