Can the Hornets Two-Ways Actually Play in the Upcoming Season?
The Hornets’ roster is already crowded, and that makes it tricky for guys on two-way deals. LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges are the big names, and there’s a bunch of guards and wings all fighting for minutes. Still, KJ Simpson, Antonio Reeves, and Drew Peterson are hoping to sneak in and make an impact. Each of them brings something different, and the question is whether Coach Lee will give them a real shot. It’s not going to be easy, but there’s definitely a chance if they stick around and show what they’ve got.
KJ Simpson probably has the best shot. He got some real minutes last year, even starting a handful of games, and showed flashes as a quick, playmaking guard. The three-point shot needs work, but he can run the floor and create for himself and others. With Spencer Dinwiddie getting older and Tre Mann still figuring things out, Simpson could carve out a small role. He doesn’t have to be a star, just someone to bring energy and stabilize the second unit.
Antonio Reeves is the scorer in the group. He showed in New Orleans that he can put up points efficiently, and he even had a 34-point game as a rookie. The Hornets could use someone off the bench who can heat up quickly, and Reeves fits that need perfectly. If he can play decent defense, too, he’s going to see the floor. He might not start, but he can absolutely make himself valuable in bursts.
Drew Peterson is more of a role player, but that’s exactly what a team like Charlotte might need. At six-foot-nine, he can shoot, handle the ball a little, and guard multiple spots. He’s already got championship experience from his time in Boston, which can help him stay ready and calm in key moments. The stats aren’t flashy, but Peterson can do the little things that make a lineup work. With Brandon Miller and Grant Williams ahead of him, he might be the steady hand off the bench.
At the end of the day, none of these three are guaranteed big minutes, but all three have a shot. The NBA season is long, injuries happen, and coaches love a reliable player who can step in when needed. Simpson, Reeves, and Peterson all bring different skills, and if they stay ready, they could surprise some people. The Hornets need depth, and these two-way guys might just be the hidden gems this year. It’s all about showing up and making the most of every opportunity.
