Hornets’ young tandem named as reason for optimism
The 2022-23 season did not go well for the Charlotte Hornets. Being the living embodiment of Murphy’s Law, injuries and poor performance dominated headlines, as this team found itself with a disappointing 27-55 record at season’s end, ultimately landing the second overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft. This would lead to thinking that there may not be a ton, if any reasons for optimism for the upcoming season.
But the fact of the matter is that the opposite is true.
Keeping in mind that the Hornets saw so many things go wrong last year is a solid pre-existing starting point, as it is not likely that things play out in this manner for a second consecutive year. Additionally, it is the second oveall draft pick in this most recent draft that could contribute for a legitimate reason for optimism in Charlotte this year.
The Hornets duo of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller was mentioned as a reason why things could turn around in a recently published article appearing on Bleacher Report. It is noted that as an individual, Ball would be a reason for optimism, but it is the addition of Miller which could lead to better results moving forward. After stating the obvious fact that more reliable options on kickout passes are needed, author Andy Bailey points out that Miller could be exactly that.
"“In his lone campaign for Alabama, the 20-year-old averaged 18.8 points and 2.9 threes, while shooting 38.4 percent from deep and 85.9 percent from the free-throw line. Ball should be able to create plenty of open looks for Miller, and numbers anywhere near those above for the young shooter could dramatically improve the Hornets’ attack.”"
It appears that Miller is exactly the type of running mate that Ball needs and is coming at just the right time. The Hornets are at a pivotal part of their rebuild process and need high draft selections, such as Miller, to work out and help the franchise move forward as they hope to take the next step toward playoff contention.
