Everything about the Charlotte Hornets screams aura. They have one of the best logos in the NBA, and their purple and teal color scheme is unparalleled. Adding to the Hornets’ mystique is their charismatic point guard, LaMelo Ball, who turns every possession into must-see TV. Miles Bridges complements Ball perfectly with his high-flying dunks and improved offensive game. Meanwhile, Brandon Miller brings a smoothness reminiscent of his idol, Paul George.
As the NBA season approaches, fans everywhere are brimming with optimism. With rosters solidified and summer league performances analyzed, every team seems to have a shot at glory. Charlotte fans dream of a championship run in the Carolinas and beyond. But what are some achievable goals for the 2024-25 Charlotte Hornets?
While we await the official NBA schedule announcement, history tells us it will likely drop in mid-August. Given last season’s performance, the Hornets may not be featured prominently on TV. So, what realistic milestones could put the Hornets back on the map? Can they contend in a loaded Eastern Conference? Let’s dive into it.
Way Too Early 2024-25 Season Goals For The Charlotte Hornets
Brandon Miller Taking The Next Step To Being An All-Star
Ball will likely be their standout All-Star candidate if the Charlotte Hornets surprise everyone this season. However, it’s crucial not to overlook Miller, especially if he can replicate the performance he showcased in his lone summer league game. In that game, Miller scored 23 points on 7-of-16 shooting, including 5-of-10 from beyond the arc. He also grabbed eight rebounds and dished out two assists in 32 minutes. While the seven turnovers are concerning, they are less problematic when considering the context of a summer league team that doesn’t reflect the regular season squad. Therefore, I don’t expect turnovers to be a significant issue when Miller plays alongside the Hornets’ regular starters.
In his rookie season, Miller displayed poise and readiness to be the team’s primary option. For the Hornets to take the next step forward, Miller must continue demonstrating his steady hand and become the go-to scorer. While Ball and Bridges will undoubtedly seek their shots, Miller must take at least 18-19 shots per game to elevate the team’s performance. By increasing his scoring load and enhancing his defensive abilities, Miller has a genuine chance to be considered for an All-Star selection.
LaMelo Ball Plays In Over 65 Games This Season
Considering that Ball has played in only 58 games over the past two seasons, fans will be ecstatic if he can play in 65 games this season. The last time Ball played over 50 games, he earned an All-Star selection. Despite his limited appearances, Ball has demonstrated his potential to be a top-10 point guard. In his 58 games, he averaged 23.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Hornets fans will hope to see improvements in his streaky shooting (41% field goals and 36% three-point shooting), decision-making (3.6 turnovers per game), and defensive positioning to avoid unnecessary fouls (3.4 per game).
With Charles Lee stepping in as the new head coach, we might see a refined version of Ball this season. Ball could easily rank among the top five in assists if he stays healthy. With Miller taking the next step, Bridges returning with his athleticism, Mark Williams patrolling the paint, and Josh Green knocking down open threes, Ball can fully embrace his role as a pure point guard while still contributing as a scorer.
Mark Williams Will Cement Himself As One Of The Best Young Centers
When discussing Hornets basketball, hypotheticals often dominate the conversation, particularly concerning players’ potential if they can stay healthy. Outside of Ball, Williams fits this narrative perfectly. Selected with the 15th pick in the 2022 draft, Williams earned the starting center spot after Mason Plumlee was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. Williams immediately seized the opportunity, securing his place as the opening night center for the 2023-24 Hornets.
Williams displayed an impressive, albeit small, sample size in his second season. In his 19 games, he reached double-digit rebounds in 10, including an outstanding 24-rebound game with 15 offensive rebounds. Williams had seven games with five or more offensive rebounds, showcasing his keen sense for tracking the ball. Unfortunately, persistent back problems caused him to miss 63 games.
If Williams can stay healthy, he has the potential to be a top-3 rebounder in the NBA. Williams is poised for a breakout season with his high 60% field goal shooting, supported by the offensive prowess of Ball, Miller, and Bridges. I anticipate a big year from Williams, solidifying his place among the best young centers in the league.
The Hornets Will Be The Most Viral Team In The NBA
While major media outlets will always showcase the biggest stars, the Hornets will dominate highlight reels this year. The alley-oops between Ball and Bridges are set to be spectacular. Miller is also poised to deliver some memorable moments. Adding to the Hornets’ viral potential is their top-tier commentating team.
There’s no better duo in the league than Eric Collins and Dell Curry. Despite the team’s struggles last season, their commentary made every game feel like a battle for the division title or even an NBA championship. Imagine the gems you’ll get this season with a healthy and much-improved team.
The Charlotte Hornets Have A Chance To Contend For A Play-In Spot.
Nothing about the Hornets’ offseason was particularly flashy, but they made smart moves. The roster resurgence started during the season when they traded Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward, and P.J. Washington. In return, they acquired Grant Williams, Tre Mann, and Vasilije Micić. While these players might not make headlines, they are crucial building blocks for the team
https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask?q=2023-+2024+nba+best+team+defensive+ratingsMann, who came to the Hornets after falling down the Oklahoma City Thunder’s depth chart, seized his opportunity and has become an integral part of the Hornets’ future. Williams brought a much-needed defensive swagger to the team. With an entire season of Williams’ intensity and Lee implementing defensive strategies that helped the Celtics rank 5th in opponent points per game and 3rd in defensive rating, the Hornets’ defensive potential is promising.
The Competition
Looking at the competition, the Hornets have a realistic shot at a play-in spot. The Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls made significant moves this offseason that may signal impending rebuilds. The Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards are likely to struggle. The Toronto Raptors have committed to their young core of Immanuel Quickley, Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett with questions about the rest of the roster. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons have cleaned house and built a team better suited for today’s NBA.
In Conclusion
While significant media attention may focus elsewhere, the Hornets have the talent and the drive to compete. With realistic goals and a shot at the play-in tournament, the 2024-25 season could see the Hornets make significant strides. Charlotte fans have much to look forward to as their team takes the next step.
