The Charlotte Hornets entered their NBA Cup debut against the Orlando Magic hoping to make a statement, but defensive issues and an unreliable offense left them with a tough loss despite an All-NBA-level performance by LaMelo Ball. Here’s my take on what went wrong and what the Hornets need to address before their next matchup.
LaMelo Ball Can’t Do It Alone
LaMelo put on a clinic with 35 points, shooting 48% from the field and knocking down six threes, looking every bit like an All-NBA player. But while LaMelo’s shot quality and execution continue to impress, his presence alone isn’t enough to overcome the glaring lack of support from the bench and the team’s secondary playmakers. The offense plummets whenever LaMelo sits, as shown by the Hornets’ dismal 57.7 offensive rating when he’s off the floor. Without a reliable secondary creator, the Hornets look stuck in the mud once LaMelo takes a break.
Missing Playmakers and Scorers
One of the biggest stories in this game was the absence of anyone who could step up behind LaMelo. Brandon Miller, who’s usually a strong complementary scorer, struggled significantly, going just 1 of 11 from three-point range. It’s becoming clear that for the Hornets to compete, Miller has to find consistency—his shaky shooting nights, especially in pressure situations, make it difficult for the team to stay in games.
Similarly, Josh Green, expected to bring some stability and energy, posted zero points on just one field goal attempt. The lack of impact on offense from Green and Miller means defenses can focus solely on LaMelo, forcing turnovers and cutting off offensive rhythm.
Defensive Breakdown and Turnover Troubles
Orlando’s defense brought intensity, especially in transition, which the Hornets struggled to counter. The team turned the ball over 22 times, leading to 17 fast-break points for the Magic—a key factor in the blowout. The Magic’s defensive prowess, especially from Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs, kept the Hornets out of sync. Simple plays were breaking down, with passes going astray and Orlando capitalizing at every opportunity.
The Road Ahead: What to Fix Before Milwaukee
With a break before their next game against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Hornets have a crucial window to regroup. They’ll need to refine their offensive schemes, find ways to get Brandon Miller more consistent touches, and bring Josh Green into the game plan in a meaningful way. Health updates on Mark Williams and Tre Mann will also be important for the team’s depth, as the Hornets’ bench performance is currently “apocalyptic,” as I put it, without LaMelo on the floor.
My Takeaway
The Hornets showed flashes of potential early this season, but consistency, health, and finding reliable secondary options have to become priorities. Otherwise, this season could be another tough slog for fans hoping for a playoff push. Let’s hope the Hornets make these adjustments—LaMelo deserves a supporting cast that can elevate the team’s potential.
