There was a lot of criticism and questions about the Charlotte Hornets' decision to select Brandon Miller over presumptive favorite Scoot Henderson with the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. While the entire story of the careers of both players is far from over, the early returns on Miller's selection by Charlotte appear to be paying off.
Miller has been able to show why the Hornets were more than comfortable with making him their choice with their high draft selection. As one of the few bright spots in Charlotte, Miller is averaging 14.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 31.3 minutes per game this season. This production level was more than enough to warrant Miller's appearance on a list of top young players in the NBA.
Coming in at number eight on Bleacher Report's NBA 22 Under 22: Which Young Prospects Are Showing Most Potential?, Miiller is among some of the league's brightest young stars. Dan Favale would handle Miller's entry in this list and would take note of his effort and abilities on the defensive end of the floor as to why he is inside the list's Top 10.
"A tip of the cap goes to Miller for his defensive hustle. He can get burned by guys used to pinging around away from the primary action, but his on-ball stands remain sturdy against players of all sizes and speeds, and he will challenge shots as the secondary or emergency line of protection at the basket."Dan Favale on Brandon Miller
Obviously, there is something to build with here, but it is Miller's offensive contributions that need some work, making a recent suggestion to make him the Hornets' focus on that end of the floor a bit difficult to justify. This was always something of a concern about Miller when he was coming out of college and should be improved in time as he becomes much more acclimated to the NBA.
It is about the long game in Charlotte, and it appears that Miiler is going to fit in with their future plans for contention. The Hornets are going to need time to build something sustainable in Charlotte, and it appears that Miller is going to be a notable player when the Hornets become a competitive team again.