Doug Branson here, the host of the daily Locked On Hornets podcast, with your daily Locked On Hornets newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Hornets and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Can LaMelo Ball Stay on the Court & Lead the Hornets to Victory?
Nov 1, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts to a missed shot during the first quarter against the Boston Celtics at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images|Jim Dedmon/Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Hey there, Hornets fans! This week’s Locked On Hornets podcast dives into LaMelo Ball’s standout offensive performances—and the foul trouble that’s keeping him on the bench when the Hornets need him most. Here’s a look at what went down over the weekend and my thoughts on the key issues shaping the team right now.
1️⃣ Big Picture: LaMelo’s Impact Limited By Foul Trouble, Defensive Struggles LaMelo Ball is proving to be an offensive powerhouse, averaging 30 points per game and hitting 40% from three. But his impact is limited by frequent foul-outs; he fouled out in back-to-back games against the Boston Celtics and has been hit with five fouls in almost every other game this season. Head Coach Charles Lee is challenging Ball to stay disciplined on defense, while LaMelo’s occasional lapses in defensive fundamentals—slapping at the ball instead of trusting his help—are keeping him sidelined in critical moments.
I think LaMelo’s efforts to improve on defense are commendable, but his aggressive approach is backfiring. His fouls are not only personal mistakes but are causing serious setbacks for the team, especially when he’s unable to close games.
2️⃣ Miles Bridges’ Slump Miles Bridges is struggling to find his shot and rhythm, posting inefficient shooting stats and hitting under 40% from the field. As we’ve noted, he’s supposed to be a critical third option, but his offensive inconsistency, especially at the rim, has been glaring. Even though he acknowledges his struggles on social media, it’s clear he needs to step up, especially with Brandon Miller’s recent return to the lineup.
Bridges’ poor shot selection is limiting his offensive potential, and his pick-and-roll defense with LaMelo has shown some lapses as well. With Miller and Ball carrying much of the offensive load, Bridges will need to find his place fast.
3️⃣ Injuries and Lack of Depth The Hornets are currently without their starting center Mark Williams (foot injury) and backup Nick Richards (shoulder). Without them, we’re left with a thin frontcourt that’s putting pressure on Grant Williams and young players like Tidjane Salaun to step up. Unfortunately, the size disadvantage has been noticeable, and Minnesota’s big lineup with Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle will pose a significant challenge in tonight’s game.
Lee seems to be using these injury challenges as a way to gauge the team’s adaptability, testing lineups and giving younger players critical minutes. This may pay off in the long run but remains a concern for immediate results.
4️⃣ Positive Takeaways Despite the foul issues and offensive slumps, the Hornets’ shooting has been a positive surprise. They’re currently top five in shooting frequency and accuracy in the NBA, which I think will only improve as Miller finds his footing. Tre Mann has also been a bright spot, providing excellent scoring and defensive energy that’s helping to offset some of the frontcourt’s struggles.
Bottom Line: Long Season Ahead This is still a developmental year for the Hornets under a new coach, and it’s obvious that Charles Lee is committed to instilling defensive discipline and fostering a culture of growth. It’ll be critical to see if Lee can deliver on helping LaMelo reduce his fouls and stay on the floor, and whether Bridges can settle into his role as a consistent scoring option. For now, patience is key, as the Hornets are still finding their footing and working through early-season challenges.
Reflections from Vince Carter’s jersey retirement night
The Toronto Raptors retired Vince Carter’s jersey on Saturday night. The ceremony came during half time of the Raptors-Kings game, where an emotional Carter and his family watched a banner with his number and the iconic photo of him mid-between-the-legs-dunk rise up to the rafters in the arena it all started in for him. That moment marked a culmination. Of a career, of a person’s trepidatious relationship with a city and its fan base, of a distinct era of NBA basketball and identity of a franchise, but also of a month’s worth of moments for Carter.
The Raptors made the announcement at a community basketball court dedication to Carter in late September, where franchise president Masai Ujiri thanked Carter for all he did to inspire the game in Canada and put the Raptors franchise on the map. “Time heals things,” Ujiri told the crowd before he confirmed Carter would be the first player in team history to have their number retired. Carter was overcome and fought back tears as he thanked the crowd, Ujiri and the city.
The tributes continued. Carter had an airplane dedicated to him by one of the country’s major airlines, Air Canada, in a nod to his nickname of the same. A mural was unveiled in downtown Toronto, and it was announced Carter would join as a broadcaster to provide coverage for select games this season — also the Raptors 30th anniversary season.
Given the host of accolades and recognition, I found it telling when Carter sat down in front of assembled media prior to Saturday night’s game for a pre-ceremony presser, and said he wasn’t sure what to expect of the night but encouraged everyone to “live in the moment”. I asked him, in light of every tribute and celebration thus far, how he was doing that or if his perception of the moment changed. He laughed. “I’m fighting,” he admitted.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis Charles Lee evaluates Brandon Miller’s return and LaMelo Ball’s defensive struggles, exploring the Hornets’ tactical adjustments. (Sports Illustrated)
Analysis Initial takeaways from the Hornets vs. Celtics game focus on key players and strategies that led to victory. (Sports Illustrated)
Biz The NBA intentionally scheduled no games on U.S. Election Day (E! News)
Analysis What happens to Damian Lillard if Giannis Antetokounmpo leaves the Bucks? (CBS)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Paul George’s Return Is A Huge Fantasy Basketball Boost
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Brett Davis-Imagn Images
As we wrap up another thrilling week in the NBA, it’s time to delve into the latest injury updates and player performances that could impact your fantasy basketball strategy. With only three games on Sunday, the anticipation builds for an action-packed 15-game day. Let’s explore the key developments and what they mean for your fantasy lineup.
Injury Updates: Key Players to Watch
Zach LaVine’s shoulder issues continue to be a concern, leaving his status questionable. This ongoing problem could affect his availability, so keep an eye on updates. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert’s ankle sprain opens opportunities for Naz Reid and Luka Garza, especially in deeper leagues. With Aaron Nesmith out and Andrew Nembhard questionable, Ben Mathurin and Jarace Walker are set to see increased roles, potentially stepping into starting positions or gaining extra minutes.
Lauri Markkanen’s return from back spasms is imminent, which is great news for fantasy managers. In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s absence isn’t surprising, but Paul George’s expected return is a significant development. Despite being listed as questionable, reports suggest George is ready to play, albeit with a possible minutes restriction. This isn’t a long-term injury, so expect him to be back in full swing soon.
Player Performances: Who’s Stepping Up?
The Detroit Pistons secured a road win against the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing improved play compared to last season. Jalen Duren stood out with a solid performance, contributing 13 points, 17 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His increased minutes were partly due to Isaiah Stewart fouling out, but it’s a positive sign for Duren’s fantasy value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Hornets podcasts.
Can LaMelo Ball Solve Foul Trouble & Carry the Charlotte Hornets? Plus Bridges’ Shooting Woes LaMelo Ball is lighting up the scoreboard, but foul trouble is keeping him off the floor when the Hornets need him most.
Charlotte Hornets Bench Dominates with 72 Points, LaMelo Ball’s Heat Check & Defensive Concerns With 72 points off the bench, the Charlotte Hornets explode on offense and survive a rocky defensive night. Can they carry this firepower into tougher matchups?
Miles Bridges Reveals MAJOR Changes to LaMelo Ball’s Game Miles Bridges speaks openly about LaMelo’s new maturity and winning focus, sparking a discussion on the impact of his growth for the Hornets’ playoff hopes. They also touch on trade speculation surrounding Vasa Micic, exploring potential moves and whether Micic’s recent struggles could make him expendable. Finally, the duo previews tonight’s matchup against the Toronto Raptors, highlighting key injury updates and discussing why rebounding and limiting turnovers will be critical for the Hornets to secure a much-needed win.
