Hornets Off to a Promising Start
The first two weeks of the season have given Hornets fans plenty to be excited about. For the first time in a while, this team looks deep, balanced, and competitive every night. Even with key injuries to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, Charlotte has shown real growth, energy, and togetherness. The mix of promising young talent and reliable veterans has created a strong foundation for what could be a very promising year in the Queen City.
The rookies have been the biggest story so far. Kon Knueppel, Ryan Kalkbrenner, and Sion James have all stepped up and played well beyond their experience. Kalkbrenner has been a defensive force, ranking second in the league in blocks behind Victor Wembanyama. Knueppel has been nothing short of historic, hitting 22 three-pointers through his first seven NBA games, the most ever by a player in that span. James has been nearly automatic from deep, shooting over 70%, giving the Hornets yet another reliable threat. Seeing three rookies perform this confidently this early in the season has been a huge boost for Charlotte.
Not every young player has found their rhythm yet, though. Liam McNeeley has struggled to make much of an impact early on, and Tidjane Salaun, last year’s sixth overall pick, has already been assigned to the Greensboro Swarm to continue developing his game. Both players have potential, but it may take more time for them to adjust to the speed and physicality of the NBA. Even with their slow starts, having three other young players already producing at a high level says a lot about the Hornets’ recent draft success. If McNeeley and Salaun can take steps forward later this season, Charlotte’s future will look even brighter.
The veterans have been just as important to the team’s early success. Miles Bridges has been terrific, averaging over 21 points per game and shooting close to 40% from three while bringing toughness and energy each night. Before their injuries, both Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball were playing great basketball and leading the team on both ends. Miller opened the season with a 25-point show, displaying confidence and shot-making ability, while LaMelo was averaging over 23 points and nearly 10 assists as one of the best floor generals in the league. Hopefully, when Miller returns from his shoulder injury and LaMelo from his ankle issue, they’ll pick up right where they left off.
Another encouraging sign has been the Hornets’ depth and versatility. Pat Connaughton has brought valuable veteran leadership and outside shooting, while Grant Williams and Josh Green are expected to give the team a major boost when they return from injuries. Having players who can step in and contribute when stars go down has kept the Hornets competitive through the first stretch of the season. This kind of depth and balance is something Charlotte has been missing for years, and it’s making a real difference now.
The one major concern has been Charlotte’s ability to stay competitive against stronger opponents. The Hornets have fallen short in matchups against the 76ers, Magic, Heat, and Timberwolves, often struggling to close out games against those top-tier teams. However, they’ve handled business easily against teams like the Jazz, Wizards, and Nets, showing they can dominate when they’re focused. The hope is that when the roster is fully healthy, Charlotte will not only compete but start winning some of those games against playoff contenders. That next step could take this team from promising to legitimate.
Overall, the start of the season has been a breath of fresh air for Hornets fans. The young players are stepping up, the veterans are leading by example, and the team’s chemistry looks stronger than ever. With Ball, Miller, Williams, and Green on the way back, there’s every reason to believe this group can keep improving. If they stay healthy and continue to build on this foundation, the Hornets might finally be turning the corner toward something special.
