Why the Hornets Bench Might Shock the NBA This Season
For the first time in a long time, there is real excitement building around the Charlotte Hornets. Everyone knows what LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller bring to the table. They are talented scorers who can create their own shots and make plays for others. The big question for years has been how Charlotte could build the right pieces around them to win consistently. After this offseason, it finally feels like the Hornets have found the right balance of talent, depth, and energy.
Through the first week of the new NBA season, the Hornets have looked deeper and more complete than anyone expected. Rookie center Ryan Kalkbrenner has been one of the biggest surprises so far, stepping into the starting lineup and producing right away. He already has multiple double-digit scoring games and brings a defensive presence that has been missing in Charlotte for years. His ability to run the floor, protect the rim, and finish around the basket has been a perfect fit next to the team’s playmakers. If he keeps progressing, Kalkbrenner could be one of the steals of the draft.
In the backcourt, Collin Sexton and rookie Kon Knueppel have both made strong early impressions. Each is averaging over 15 points per game, showing confidence and control beyond expectations. Depending on the matchup, one starts while the other becomes the sixth man, giving the Hornets instant scoring off the bench. Add in Tre Mann and Moussa Diabaté, and suddenly Charlotte has a reliable eight-man rotation that plays hard every night. This type of flexibility gives the Hornets options they simply have not had in years.
Perhaps the most unexpected story so far has been rookie Sion James. He has quickly worked his way into the rotation and delivered multiple double-digit scoring performances. James plays with high energy, defends multiple positions, and brings toughness every time he checks in. His unselfishness and hustle make him the kind of player teammates love sharing the court with. He is proving that the Hornets might have found another hidden gem late in the draft.
Even beyond the main rotation, the Hornets have plenty of intriguing pieces waiting for their chance. Rookie Liam McNeeley and sophomore Tidjane Salaun are developing quickly, and veterans Grant Williams and Josh Green are both working their way back from injury. When those two return, Charlotte’s depth will only get stronger. Pat Connaughton is another steady veteran who can step in and contribute whenever needed. On top of that, two-way players Antonio Reeves, Drew Peterson, and KJ Simpson are all capable of giving valuable minutes when called upon.
This might be the deepest Hornets roster fans have seen in years. For once, it feels like Charlotte can compete with anyone, even when their stars take a breather. The combination of young talent, veteran leadership, and hungry role players makes this team fun to watch every night. The energy around the Hornets is different, and it is starting to show in the way they play. If this bench keeps performing like it has early on, the rest of the league might be in for a surprise.
