The NBA schedule was released today, marking the start of critical basketball dates for the upcoming season. Among the highlights is the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup, where the Charlotte Hornets will face stiff competition in East Group A alongside the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Orlando Magic. The Hornets’ tournament play kicks off on the road against the Magic on November 12th. The Hornets struggled in last year’s inaugural in-season tournament, finishing with a 1-3 record in group play.
However, times—and optimism—have changed for the Hornets. With a fully healthy roster and a new head coach, Charles Lee, who brings championship experience from his time with the Boston Celtics, the team hopes to turn the tide. Lee’s leadership will be crucial in navigating this brutal group, which includes two championship contenders in the 76ers and Knicks and the Magic, considered a dark horse contender. These formidable opponents will test the Hornets, but as the saying goes, the games still have to be played.
So, when are the remaining three games, and how might the Hornets fare in this daunting group? With critical matchups on the horizon, can they rise to the challenge and defy expectations? The answers to these questions will soon unfold as the Hornets embark on their NBA Cup journey.
November 12th @ Orlando
The Orlando Magic are coming off their best season since 2018-19 when they won 42 games. Last season, they pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games in the first round of the playoffs but faltered in the second half of Game 7, leading to a disappointing exit. Determined to address their shooting woes, the Magic made significant moves in the offseason.
They signed Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a three-year, $66 million contract, solidifying their shooting guard position. Caldwell-Pope, a 41% three-point shooter during his two seasons with the Denver Nuggets, has consistently shot 38% or better from beyond the arc over the past five seasons. His elite perimeter defense also aligns perfectly with the Magic’s defensive identity. Additionally, the Magic secured Franz Wagner with a $224 million super-max contract and re-signed key players like Jonathan Isaac, Moritz Wagner, and Gary Harris.
In last season’s series, the Magic dominated the Hornets, winning 3-1. With expectations high, the Magic are focused on cementing themselves as a second-tier Eastern Conference power. They must establish dominance against a Hornets team still figuring things out under Lee. Paolo Banchero, who averaged 25 points per game against the Hornets last season, will be expected to lead the charge again.
Result: Loss
November 19th @ Brooklyn
The Brooklyn Nets are amid a rebuild that many wondered would ever happen. Despite previously being adamant about keeping Mikal Bridges, the Nets traded him to the New York Knicks for a package that included Bojdan Bogdanovic and several first-round picks. The Nets hired Sacramento Kings associate head coach Jordi Fernandez as their head coach to guide this new era.
In free agency, the Nets re-signed Nic Claxton to a four-year, $97 million contract, ensuring that he will anchor the back end of a defense that could struggle mightily this season. They also acquired Ziaire Williams, a former top-10 pick, from the Memphis Grizzlies. After a strong rookie season, Williams fell out of favor in Memphis, but with minutes available in Brooklyn, this could be his chance to revive his career.
Last season, the Hornets won the season series against the Nets 2-1. This year’s Nets team appears to be a roster in flux. The pieces they have are not likely to lead them to a playoff berth but could be valuable trade assets for accumulating draft capital. Shoutout to Killian Hayes for getting a second opportunity in the NBA and Ben Simmons—let’s hope he can play at least 50 games this season.
Result: Win
November 29th vs. New York
For the first time in years, the New York Knicks are experiencing a resurgence of championship aspirations. Last season, they entered the playoffs with high hopes, only to be crushed by Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers in seven games. Despite that disappointment, the Knicks have built a deep and talented roster, which became even more vital during the season.
The December trade for OG Anunoby and Precious Achiuwa was a game-changer. Josh Hart’s consistent play and Donte DiVincenzo’s sharpshooting had already put the Knicks in the contender conversation before the offseason began. This summer, they doubled down on their commitment to winning.
Anunoby was re-signed to a contract worth over $200 million, and the Knicks made a splash by trading for Bridges, who is owed $48.2 million over the next two seasons. Additionally, they signed Cameron Payne and re-signed Achiuwa on a team-friendly one-year deal. Although they lost Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Knicks still boast one of the NBA’s deepest rosters.
Last season, the Knicks swept the Hornets in their season series, winning each game by 20+ points. Unless the Knicks struggle to find the correct rotation for their talent-laden roster, the Hornets will likely find it challenging to keep up with New York’s firepower on both ends of the court.
Result: Loss
December 3rd Vs. Philadelphia
Rounding out group play is the Philadelphia 76ers, a team widely regarded as the offseason’s biggest winner. Last season, Joel Embiid was on track to win a second consecutive MVP before a knee injury cut his campaign short. In his absence, Tyrese Maxey stepped up as the Sixers’ lead guard, earning his first All-Star appearance and winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player award. With the potential to add a superstar, the Sixers didn’t disappoint.
In one of the offseason’s most significant moves, the Sixers signed Paul George to a four-year, $211 million contract. On the plus side, they acquired one of the league’s best two-way players, who can also serve as a closer in tight games. The downside is George’s age—at 34, his contract could become a burden if his performance declines. However, the trio of Embiid, Maxey, and George form an elite big three that could dominate if they stay healthy.
The Sixers also secured Maxey with a $204 million rookie extension. They added vital veterans like Eric Gordon, Caleb Martin, and former Detroit Pistons Reggie Jackson and Andre Drummond to round out the roster.
Last season, the Sixers swept the Hornets in their four-game series. With much to prove to themselves and the league, the Sixers will be eager to make a statement in this matchup.
Result: Loss
In Conclusion
The Charlotte Hornets face a tough challenge in the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup, taking on strong teams like the Magic, Nets, Knicks, and 76ers. While wins may be challenging, the experience will be valuable for their growth under new head coach Charles Lee. These matchups will challenge the Hornets and shape their season regardless of the outcomes.
Overall Record: 1-3
