For an NBA franchise to thrive, it typically needs at least two star players to build around. It’s rare to see a team succeed with just one star or a roster of solid talent without star potential. Having two elite players presents constant challenges for opponents, as they can’t simply focus on shutting down one player.
Luckily for the Charlotte Hornets, they’ve benefited from recent lottery success, securing two top-three picks: LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. With Miller entering his second season and Ball preparing for his fifth, a full, healthy season together could shed light on the future of the team.
LaMelo Ball is a unique talent. At 6’8″, he’s a smooth playmaker with confidence in his three-point shooting and a knack for highlight-reel passes. Last season, Ball averaged 23.6 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds alongside Miller. Despite limited playing time, he ranked in the 91st percentile for assist percentage among NBA guards.
Brandon Miller also shined for the Hornets last season. As a 6’9″ wing, he’s the type of player teams dream of building around. A versatile shooter inside and beyond the arc, Miller’s mid-range game and shot creation showed significant improvement. After the All-Star break, he averaged 18.5 points and 1.1 steals, giving Hornets fans hope that he could develop into a star.
It’s clear these two top-three picks are central to the Hornets’ future. With Ball as an All-Star-level playmaker and Miller as a potential All-Star scorer, this duo could turn the Hornets into a team to watch, provided they stay healthy and get a bit of luck. Hornets fans are eager to see what a full season of Ball and Miller playing together will bring. The future of the franchise rests in their hands.
