🏀 Game Breakdown
The Hornets fell hard to the Memphis Grizzlies 132-120, a game that was effectively decided in the first half. Memphis unleashed a physical defensive assault that left our squad reeling, particularly targeting LaMelo Ball.
💥 Mark Williams: Potential vs. Performance
Despite scoring a career-high 38 points, Williams is still a work in progress. My critique stands: he needs to set a tone in the first half, not just pad stats in garbage time. His second-half surge was impressive, but NBA playoff-caliber players make impacts from tip-off. Head coach Charles Lee acknowledged the disparity in Williams’ performance, stating, “How he played in the second half is really what we needed in the first half. The force he played with and his ability to finish in the paint.”
🛡️ LaMelo’s Superstar Test
Ball drew 11 fouls but struggled against Memphis’ defensive intensity. He reminds me of Donovan Mitchell - talented, but not yet in that super-elite tier where defenders can’t disrupt his game. The difference between a star and a superstar is how you respond to that type of defensive pressure.
🏹 Defensive Lessons
Rookie Jaylen Wells embodied exactly what a good team does - be physically relentless. By forcing referees to make calls and getting into LaMelo’s personal space, Memphis demonstrated the kind of defensive identity the Hornets are still building.
📅 Upcoming Homestand
Nine home games before the All-Star break offer a critical opportunity. Winnable matchups against Portland, New Orleans, Lakers, and others could build momentum. Pro tip: Hornets fans will show up if given something to cheer about.
📺 Local Broadcast Win
The first local TV games since 2007-2008 are coming, beginning with the Jan 27 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers which you can watch on WSOC. This isn’t just a broadcast - it’s a fan engagement strategy. If you can’t make it to Spectrum, watch the game locally and let someone within the organization know that you want MORE games aired locally next season.
🔍 Key Takeaway
We’re watching a young team learn hard lessons. The gap between us and playoff contenders like Memphis is significant, but not insurmountable. Development, not just scoring, is the real game here.
