The NBA 2024-25 regular season is approaching, and teams are gearing up for training camp. The Charlotte Hornets enter the season at a pivotal moment, driven by renewed optimism and a clear direction. With teams getting back in full swing, one of the most pressing questions remains: Will the Hornets’ core players stay healthy enough to make a meaningful impact?
Equally important is whether one of the team’s young talents can leap from a promising prospect to a bona fide superstar.
However, as Hoopshype’s latest top-100 list shows, the Hornets still lack a player in that elite category—players like Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid headline the rankings. For Hornets fans, lists like these spark discussions about their young core’s progress and the gap to NBA stardom.
Despite this, three Charlotte Hornets have cracked the top 100. Who are they, and where do they rank? Let’s dive in.
Charlotte Hornets’ Top Players Revealed In Top-100 NBA List
Charlotte Hornets Top 100: Miles Bridges (67th)
Miles Bridges made an impressive return after missing 92 games due to off-the-court issues. The last time he played in an NBA game was on April 10, 2022, and returning and averaging 21.0 points is a solid achievement. The hope for Bridges this season is that his production translates into more wins for the team.
This summer, Bridges signed a three-year, $75 million contract. Bridges could have a highly efficient season ahead with his new contract and offseason conditioning.
Charlotte Hornets Top 100: Brandon Miller (58th)
Like Bridges last season, Brandon Miller entered the league facing controversy from offseason decisions. However, it didn’t affect his performance on the court. Miller averaged 17.3 points while shooting 44% from the field, 37% from three, and 82% from the free-throw line, earning him third place in Rookie of the Year voting. As the season went on, his game began to resemble that of his idol, Paul George.
Miller focused on strengthening his weaknesses this summer and adding muscle to handle the NBA’s physicality. There’s more pressure on him to step up as the Hornets’ go-to guy. If he can meet expectations, an All-Star selection could be within reach this season.
LaMelo Ball (41st)
LaMelo Ball’s ranking may surprise some, given the circumstances. Last season, Ball played in just 22 games, yet he averaged 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 8.0 assists, and 1.8 steals on 43/35/86% shooting. Despite his limited availability, Ball has shown enough to assure Hornets fans he’s the franchise point guard. However, some fans wonder if it might be time to trade him for a strong return as injuries plague his career.
This season is crucial for Ball. He has the talent, and the organization wants him to be part of their future, but the most significant question mark is his availability. In professional sports, “availability is the best ability.” Ball must play 65 games to reassure fans about his future. The skill and flair are undeniable, but health remains the key concern.
In Conclusion
The Hornets’ 2024-25 success depends on these three players’ performances. Miles Bridges’ numbers must result in wins. After a strong rookie year, Brandon Miller faces higher expectations as he strives to become the team’s top option and All-Star contender. LaMelo Ball remains the most talented player on the roster, but his health is the critical factor. If he can stay on the court, Ball can lead the Hornets’ charge forward.
The season offers a fresh start and new challenges, but the Hornets’ future rests heavily on the shoulders of their young core. Whether they can rise to the occasion will shape the narrative of their year.
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