Charlotte Hornets: Keys to growth on offense

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 25: Cody Martin #11 of the Charlotte Hornets is congratulated by Miles Bridges #0 after a play in the second quarter during their game against the Boston Celtics at Spectrum Center on April 25, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 25: Cody Martin #11 of the Charlotte Hornets is congratulated by Miles Bridges #0 after a play in the second quarter during their game against the Boston Celtics at Spectrum Center on April 25, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
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Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

One reason for the growth on offense has been Miles Bridges

Another player who has made big strides offensively is Miles Bridges. Bridges, a strong candidate for the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year award, has improved multiple facets of his offensive game.

For example, his ball-handling, playmaking, and slashing ability are all dramatically improved. Bridges has shown the ability to be a point forward in some instances and has taken some of the playmaking burden off Ball’s shoulders this season. His ability to shoot and finish at the rim combined with his ability to beat his opponent off the bounce and with crossovers and counter moves have opened up passing lanes for his teammates. Not only has Bridges opened up those passing lanes, but he has found those teammates as well. Bridges is averaging a career-high 3.6 assists per game and has had 10 games this season of 5 assists or more, according to Basketball-Reference. Bridges has also improved his finishing package In previous seasons, he was used primarily as a line driver and lob-catcher, but now has expanded his ability to finish at the rim, using an array of moves such as floaters with either hand and off-hand layups. Combine that with his defensive versatility and you have a complete player.