If things go according to plan, Brandon Miller will remain with the Charlotte Hornets for a long time or even his entire career. He has made strides in proving he is worth building around, especially after he has emerged as a leader for the franchise.
Hornets coach Charles Lee recently addressed the media at his first tip-off luncheon with the organization. Per the Charlotte Observer's Roderick Boone, one of the first players Lee brought up when asked about Charlotte's progression this offseason was Miller. The second-year coach highlighted the swingman doing well in his rehab and showing up as a leader among the players.
Despite Miller not turning 23 until November, he appears ready to assume a higher level of authority within the team. According to Lee, he has served as a mentor to his younger teammates, including Nick Smith Jr., led film sessions, and been more vocal on the court.
The revelation should have Hornets fans enthusiastic, as it looks like Miller figures to be more than just a brilliant hoopster. He has exhibited the potential to fill one of the voids in Charlotte. It should not be too tough for him to be among the squad's top players while also being considered as one of its leaders.
Hornets are in desperate need of leaders
The talent level in Buzz City is arguably the highest it has been in recent years. Still, it's unclear who will rise up as the leader.
Maybe LaMelo Ball can step into the role, as he is already widely seen as the Hornets' best player. It's only natural to expect him as the guy his teammates look up to for help and guidance. Lee also stated that the club is hoping that the 2022 All-Star will "take a leap" in the leadership area.
For now, Grant Williams and Miles Bridges are probably the de facto leaders. The former has shown some qualities of being one, particularly his intangibles, which the front office found difficult to replace last season when he went down with an injury. Meanwhile, Bridges is currently the longest-tenured Hornet. The thing is, neither is assured of still being on the franchise a few years from now. So, the opportunity is ripe for Miller to shoulder a new responsibility in Charlotte.
If he proves capable of handling such a level of influence well, it's not hard to envision him as a worthy challenger for the face of the franchise tag currently held by Ball.