Three encouraging signs for the Charlotte Hornets.
The Charlotte Hornets have gotten off to a quick start this season, winning four of their first five games. Even though the Hornets do have some predictable wins thus far (such as against the lowly Orlando Magic and beat up Indiana Pacers), they also have one signature win already registered – Charlotte blew out the Brooklyn Nets a few nights ago.
While many will chalk up the Hornets’ 4-1 record as simply a fast or quick start to the season, there are encouraging signs that suggest that some of this success for Charlotte is sustainable.
3 encouraging signs for the Charlotte Hornets: Miles Bridges has gone up a level
Miles Bridges has been on a tear to start the season. Bridges averages over 26 points per game and has gone for 30 or more in three of his five matches. Bridges has also been shooting the ball well with slashes of 52%/39.5%/90%, respectfully.
Even though the sample size is small, the Hornets will have a potent offense if Bridges can stay over 20 points per game.
3 encouraging signs for the Charlotte Hornets: LaMelo continues to Ball
LaMelo Ball exceeded any hype last season. He was the runaway Rookie of the Year, even with a broken wrist causing him to miss time. Ball has picked up where he left off by pouring in almost 20 points per game.
On top of that, Ball averages six assists, five boards, and two steals while only playing 28 minutes per game. While many would hope to see Ball get more assists if he keeps up this pace, he might see himself dishing it to others in the All-Star game.
3 encouraging signs for the Charlotte Hornets: An improved offense
The Hornets’ current key ranks are as follows. First, in points per game, 5th ranked in pace and 2nd in Offense Rating. The Hornets are a juggernaut on offense through five games averaging 121.2 points.
The high-scoring attack is primarily thanks to Bridges putting up 26 a night, Ball averaging 19 a game, and Gordon Hayward scoring 18 points per game. The offense could also improve more once Terry Rozier returns to the lineup. Charlotte also ranks 3rd in Team Assists averaging 27 per game.
With all the good comes some bad, and The Hornets do have some flaws in their game. The Hornets rank 20th in defensive rating, giving up 110.6 points a night. The Hornets have also beat up on many bad teams so far, winning over the Pacers (1-4) and the Magic (0-5).
The Hornets are showing the league that they are for real. Even with one of the youngest rosters in The NBA, they are not allowing lack of experience to slow them down. There is no more waiting or rebuilding for Charlotte anymore. This season will be the first of many for The Hornets that will end in a playoff run.