Brandon Miller makes adjustment that will take his game to the next level

Some NBA players have seen their careers hit a snag because of the dreaded sophomore slump. There have been various reasons behind their struggles, although some of them merely regressed to the mean after overachieving in their rookie years.

Another possible reason a number of prospects don't do as well in their second campaign is that opponents could already be wise to their act, especially since scouting reports have more data.

One of the things to watch out for about the Charlotte Hornets is whether Brandon Miller will fall victim to the sophomore slump or improve upon an outstanding showing in his first year in the league.

Charles Lee praises his rising star's ability to adjust to defenses

Perhaps there's nothing to worry about Miller, even after he couldn't impress in his first two appearances in the preseason. He delivered a bounce-back game against the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday, which drew plenty of positive reactions, including fans declaring an All-Star season is coming.

The 2024 Rookie of the Year finalist followed up his 22-point performance with 26 points versus the New York Knicks on Tuesday. He drained six 3-pointers and scored 15 in the third quarter to keep the Hornets in the contest.

Hornets coach Charles Lee likes what he has seen from Miller, praising how the swingman has been able to work through the defense's physicality. He also offered a bit of a warning to last year's No. 2 overall draft pick, stating that Miller has evolved from being "a guy on the scouting report" to "one of the guys" that opposing teams are preparing for.

The 39-year-old coach noted, though, that the University of Alabama product has "answered the call" by avoiding harboring a one-track mind and looking for different ways to impact the game.

Against New York, Miller dished out three assists in the early going before taking over on offense. He scored in a variety of ways, extending his range well beyond the arc, attacking the paint, and taking advantage of his teammates' screens.

Hopefully, the 21-year-old wing can maintain or boost his production when the regular season starts. The competition will be much tougher than it is in the preseason. However, with Lee guiding him and scheming an offensive game plan that appears to be a great fit with his strengths, Miller will likely have many opportunities to flourish — as long as he can also adjust to what defenses will have to offer.