Hornets Struggle to Gain Traction in Preseason Play
The Charlotte Hornets have had a mixed bag of results in their preseason games leading up to the 2025-26 NBA season. Despite boasting a talented roster led by star point guard LaMelo Ball, the Hornets have failed to find consistency, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether the team can finally break through and reach the playoffs.
Inconsistent Performances
In their recent matchup against the New York Knicks, the Hornets fell 115-98, with Ball leading the way with 25 points and 8 assists. However, the team's supporting cast, including players like Miles Bridges and Kon Knueppel, have struggled to find their rhythm, failing to provide the necessary complementary production.
The Hornets' preseason woes have extended beyond the Knicks game, as they've also dropped contests to the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder. While the team has showcased flashes of their potential, particularly with Ball's playmaking and the emergence of young talents like Moussa Diabaté, the overall lack of cohesion and defensive intensity has been a concern.
Roster Shake-ups and Renovations
Adding to the Hornets' challenges has been the recent news of height discrepancies in the team's roster listings. Notably, Collin Sexton, the team's starting point guard, has been listed at a shorter stature than in previous seasons, raising questions about the accuracy of NBA player measurements.
Off the court, the Spectrum Center, the Hornets' home arena, has undergone a significant $245 million renovation, promising a premium fan experience for the upcoming season. However, the team's ability to capitalize on these improvements will depend on their ability to find a winning formula on the court.
TL;DR
- The Charlotte Hornets have struggled to find consistency in their preseason games, raising concerns about their ability to reach the playoffs this season.
- Star point guard LaMelo Ball has been a bright spot, but the team's supporting cast has failed to provide the necessary complementary production.
- Roster changes, including height discrepancies, and the renovation of the Spectrum Center have added to the Hornets' off-court challenges.
- The Hornets will need to quickly address their on-court issues and find a winning formula if they hope to make a postseason push in the 2025-26 campaign.