As the Charlotte Hornets close out the 2024-25 season, players compete for their future. With offseason changes looming, this final stretch of games will help determine who stays and who goes. One player on that bubble is Miles Bridges, who has been building momentum despite the team’s struggles.
Although Bridges did not play in Tuesday night’s 134-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks and managed just seven points in a 123-88 defeat against the Los Angeles Clippers, his overall production in recent weeks has been impressive. Over his last 15 games, Bridges has averaged 25.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting an efficient 46/38/87%. While his strong play hasn’t translated into wins, it has likely expanded the Hornets’ options heading into the offseason.
Has Bridges’ improved performance secured his place in Charlotte for the 2025-26 season? Or should the Hornets capitalize on his value and explore trade opportunities?
Increased Role, Bigger Numbers
Throughout his career, Bridges has proven he can score when given the opportunity. He averaged 20.6 points per game in his previous two seasons on 16.3 shot attempts. However, he struggled early this season, managing just 16.0 points on 13.3 attempts over his first 11 games.
With injuries sidelining key players, Bridges has once again been asked to take on a more significant offensive role. Over his last 15 games, his shot attempts have risen to 18.9 per game—up from 16.6 over his first 38 appearances—resulting in a noticeable spike in production. But with greater responsibility comes the question: Is his increased scoring truly making the team better, or is it simply a byproduct of opportunity?
Does Bridges Truly Help Elevate the Hornets?
While Bridges has been scoring efficiently, his production hasn’t translated into wins. Over the last 15 games, the Hornets have gone just 4-11, including a historic three-game stretch in which they lost by 30 or more points—an unfortunate NBA record. Despite Bridges’ offensive output, the team’s inability to remain competitive raises questions about his overall impact.
Beyond scoring, Bridges’ contributions elsewhere on the court remain inconsistent. During this stretch, he holds a plus-minus of -7.2, with five games registering a -19 or worse. His defensive engagement has fluctuated, and his playmaking hasn’t elevated teammates enough to offset the Hornets’ struggles. While his numbers suggest a high level of individual production, they haven’t necessarily led to winning basketball.
As LaMelo Ball returns to full strength and Brandon Miller returns from injury, the Hornets must determine whether Bridges can be an efficient and impactful third option. Does his scoring come at the cost of ball movement and defensive intensity? Or can he adapt to a reduced role while maintaining his efficiency? These are questions Charlotte will need to answer before making a long-term commitment.
In Conclusion
As the Hornets approach a pivotal offseason, Miles Bridges’ recent play presents both an opportunity and a dilemma. His scoring surge has proven he can produce when given the green light, but his impact on winning remains uncertain. At the same time, his ability to step up in an expanded role is commendable, whether he can thrive as a complementary piece alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller or if his production is inflated by sheer volume.
The Hornets must decide whether Bridges is a long-term fit or whether his current value makes him a prime trade asset. Is he a foundational piece for the future, or should the Hornets capitalize on his recent play to acquire assets that complement their young core better? Whatever direction they choose, the decision on Bridges will shape the team’s trajectory heading into the 2025-26 season and beyond.
