A Comprehensive guide to the Charlotte Hornets’ 2023-24 preseason
By Adam Taylor
Game 3: Hornets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Location: Spectrum Center
Date: October 15
Key Thunder players: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, Chet Holmgren, Tre Mann
New additions: Davis Bertans, Victor Oladipo, Cason Wallace, Keyontae Johnson (two-way), Ty Ty Washington
Notable offseason moves: Drafted Cason Wallace. Acquired Bertans, Acquired, then flipped Patty Mills.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have executed a near-picture-perfect rebuild over the past few years. Now, the Western Conference team is edging closer and closer to becoming a genuine force in the NBA. Chet Holmgren will make his debut this season after missing his rookie year due to injury. As such, the Hornets’ defense will have a major challenge on their hands during their game against the Thunder – due to the scoring threats the Thunder pose across the floor.
The contest will also be a good measuring stick for the Hornets, as they can judge the gap between them and another young and upcoming team. The Thunder are clearly ahead in their rebuilding phase, but for Charlotte, figuring out where they need to improve will be a significant step in the right direction heading into the new season.
The guard matchup between LaMelo Ball and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will also be a fun one to watch as two of the better young ball handlers in the league go toe-to-toe for the first time in the new season.