Weekly Buzz | Week one
Game 1: Charlotte Hornets vs. Brooklyn Nets (Oct 22, 2025 – Spectrum Center)
Final Score: Hornets 136 – Nets 117
Record: 1–0
Game Summary:
The Hornets came out blazing in their home opener, showcasing an explosive offense and unselfish ball movement that left the Nets scrambling. Charlotte posted a franchise record nine players in double figures, a clear sign of the team’s depth and chemistry under new rotations.
Key Performers:
Brandon Miller – 25 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals; strong two-way presence.
LaMelo Ball – 20 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds; controlled tempo and pace.
Miles Bridges – 18 points, 11 rebounds; physical inside, solid defense.
Team Stats:
FG%: 53.3% | 3PT%: 47.2% | Assists: 34 | Turnovers: 11
Bench Points: 62 – a major upgrade from last season’s depth struggles.
Advanced Breakdown:
Pace: 102.5 possessions per 48 – 6th in the league opening night.
Offensive Rating: 132.6 (top 3 in the NBA so far).
Bench Efficiency: +21 net rating with the second unit in.
Highlight Moment: A 9–0 fourth-quarter run anchored by Ball and rookie forward Jett Howard sealed the game and electrified the home crowd.
Takeaway:
This wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. The Hornets looked like a team reborn: fast, deep, and decisive. Miller’s composure stood out, and Ball’s leadership is evolving. Charlotte’s shooting confidence could make them a sleeper threat early in the East.
Game 2: Charlotte Hornets @ Philadelphia 76ers (Oct 25, 2025 – Wells Fargo Center)
Final Score: 76ers 125 – Hornets 121
Record: 1–1
Game Summary:
The Hornets built a double-digit lead heading into the fourth quarter but couldn’t close the deal against a veteran Sixers team. Quentin Grimes’ clutch three-pointer with 14 seconds left buried Charlotte’s hopes of a 2–0 start. Despite the loss, the Hornets showed poise on the road — especially from their backcourt.
Key Performers:
LaMelo Ball – 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists; near triple-double despite heavy pressure.
Collin Sexton – 21 points, 7 assists; effective driving and creating contact.
Ryan Kalkbrenner – 14 points on 100% from the feild
Team Stats:
FG%: 48.5% | 3PT%: 39.4% | Assists: 27 | Turnovers: 15
Rebounds: 51 (13 offensive) – showing hustle but lacking conversion late.
Advanced Breakdown:
Fourth-Quarter Efficiency: Offensive rating dropped from 122.8 to 98.3 in final 12 minutes.
Clutch +/-: -8 in last three minutes, compared to +11 through first three quarters.
Lineup Highlight: Ball–Sexton–Bridges– lineup had a +15 net rating before fatigue set in.
Injury Note: Brandon Miller exited early with left shoulder soreness (4 points, 9 minutes). His status for next week remains day-to-day.
Takeaway:
Even with the loss, Charlotte proved it can hang with playoff-caliber teams. Ball looks confident and physically stronger. However, the late-game composure issues and overreliance on LaMelo in crunch time need addressing.
Weekly Trends & Outlook
Overall Grade: B+ Promising start showing identity on offense, with flashes of resilience. Closing ability and health will dictate their next stretch.
Next Up: Hornets hit the road again to face the Chicago Bulls (Oct 29) before a three-game home stand. Expect more experimentation with the second unit if Miller is limited.
