Trading for Naz Reid was a statement of intent from the Charlotte Hornets. However, Charles Lee benched his new forward for the entire second half of the loss to the Detroit Pistons after becoming unhappy with the player's attitude. Reid's 28-point, 9-rebound performance on Oct. 4 against the Brooklyn Nets proves he took note of Lee's decision, and the younger generation will hopefully follow suit.
A rebuild is more than making plays for young, talented players. Having a head coach in situ who can create a strong culture behind the scenes is just as critical. Generational wealth and a lack of guidance have caused many inexperienced players to fall by the wayside. By disciplining an established player like Reid, Lee is proving he is not willing to tolerate indiscipline.
The 27-year-old's response to his head coach's bold punishment was exactly what Lee needed to prove he had the team's respect. Despite losing 114-104 to the Brooklyn Nets, Reid played with a level of enthusiasm he didn't show in the Pistons matchup. Nobody likes to lose games, but this is a marathon, not a sprint for Lee; this reaction should be considered a big coaching win.
The Hornets must believe in their head coach's approach
Sport is a results-driven business, and now that the NBA has changed its Draft Lottery rules to prevent tanking, there are few benefits to losing almost every night. Charlotte's front office is unlikely to appreciate a catastrophic season record, but this season is different for the franchise. This is a year of development for the Hornets' young core. If players are buying into what Lee is selling and the roster is competitive in games, the franchise must stay patient with the head coach.
Charlotte accepted immaturity for too long during LaMelo Ball's era. The organisation will have to remain hopeful that Ball's erratic personality hasn't already shaped the future of Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel. Lee's no-nonsense approach should be enough to keep his future stars on the straight and narrow. His personal relationship with the duo will be key to the franchise's future success.
Of course, in the age of player power, Lee's future won't just be determined by the front office; his roster will play a role in his job security. While disciplining Reid appears to have worked once, it's hard to believe that an NBA star will accept being made an example of too many times. Lee is treading a fine line, but as it stands, it seems to be working.
If Reid's performance is anything to go by, Lee has the respect of his dressing room. With so many young prospects in the pipeline, the head coach must set a professional culture. For now, his approach is working, and the Hornets must back their man, even if the team's regular-season record doesn't make for pretty reading.
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