It’s the start of NBA Cup group play tonight against Orlando, and there’s a real sense of opportunity here. With Wendell Carter Jr. and Paolo Banchero sidelined for the Magic, Charlotte has an opening to grab an early win in the Cup—and make a statement.
🏆 Why the NBA Cup Matters
Cup play could be huge for Charlotte, especially given our limited exposure on the national stage. If the Hornets make it through group play, it could mean a national TV spot in Vegas, a rare chance for wider recognition. This is exactly the kind of shot our younger players need. Just imagine the momentum a Cup win could bring!
🎯 Key Matchup: LaMelo Ball vs. Orlando’s Defense
LaMelo has been on fire, pulling in his second Eastern Conference Player of the Week nomination. His pull-up shooting, currently leading the NBA, is electric—but we’re also seeing shot quality take a hit as LaMelo shoulders more of the offense with key injuries on our roster. The question is, can LaMelo balance his shot selection while still playing as the aggressive scorer we need?
🤔 What to Watch: Can We Out-Rebound Orlando?
Orlando’s front line is depleted without Carter, which gives our offense an edge. Our rebounding has been outstanding, even without Mark Williams and Nick Richards. If we can control the boards, this game is ours to lose. Orlando is coming off two wins, but let’s face it—their competition (Pelicans and Wizards) was less than stellar. LaMelo’s playmaking and Brandon Miller’s energy should push us over the line if we stay disciplined.
🧠 My Take
This NBA Cup is the perfect time to embrace the “everything matters” philosophy that Coach Lee has instilled in the squad. Unlike last season’s debut, the stakes feel higher this year, with more teams taking it seriously. Winning tonight wouldn’t just be a feather in our cap—it’d be a sign that the Hornets are evolving into a more competitive, nationally relevant team. Let’s bring that intensity to the floor and make some noise!
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