Will overlooked Charlotte Hornets’ forward break out this season?
If the Charlotte Hornets are going to exceed their incredibly low expectations in the upcoming 20223-24 NBA season, they are going to need some major contributions from an overlooked player from the most recent NBA Draft. That player? Rookie forward Brandon Miller. Miller is at best, the third-most talked-about rookie behind San Antonio’s Victor Wembanayma and Portland’s Scoot Henderson, with most of the conversations being of the critical variety. This, however, is one of a positive nature.
Appearing on a list of every team’s most likely breakout candidate, Miller was the Hornets’ entry. While erroneously labeled as Charlotte’s most talented player on their roster, a title that belongs to LaMelo Ball until someone overtakes him, Miller was named the most likely player to break out in Charlotte this season.
"“Miller is a 6-foot-9 wing that has already proven to be a three-level scorer. If he can find his footing quickly with the Hornets, he’ll have the chance to since he’s the projected starter at the small forward position, he’s a solid breakout candidate for a team that needs to catch a break or two heading into this new era for the franchise.”"
That last part, about the Hornets needing a break, could not be more right. Charlotte has dealt with their fair share of adversity in both incarnations of the Hornets, with the second version facing significantly more troubles than the original. If they can find a way to a thing or two go their way at this point in the team-building process, perhaps they could manage to advance past the second round of the playoffs for the first time in the history of the Hornets/Bobcats at some point in the future.
Is it entirely fair to put the bulk of the Hornets’ immediate and long-term future on the shoulders of Miller? No, but this organization took a chance on him over the presumed favorite Henderson, and there is pressure on Miller to perform at a certain level right away. Miller breaking out as a rookie would take pressure off of him and the organization. This would hopefully make the path to relevance a little less rocky than it appears currently.
