By: Jacob Cullum
The Charlotte Hornets begin the 2023-24 NBA Season tonight in a matchup with the Atlanta Hawks. Charlotte, after going 27-55 last season, looks to begin the season on a positive note. With uncertainty surrounding 2nd overall pick Brandon Miller, how will the Hornets fair this season and tonight against Atlanta?
Embed from Getty ImagesAfter signing a max rookie extension, PG LaMelo Ball looks to impressive in his 3rd season. Last year, LaMelo showed his potential as an all-around threat averaging 23.3 PPG, 6.4 REB, and 8.4 AST. With a cornerstone franchise point guard to build around, notable veteran scorers Terry Rozier III and Gordon Hayward will have the ability to play their roles and not be leaned on for heaps of scoring opportunities. The key for LaMelo remains his ability to stay on the court and keep himself injury free. Providing he can do that, look for LaMelo to have an even better 3rd season than his 2nd year.
C Mark Willaims also remains a new starter, as the 21-year-old center from Duke is now entering his second season after averaging 9.0 PPG and 7.1 REB with a 63.8 FG %. Perhaps Williams can become a secondary scorer for the Hornets to rely on in the paint.
Hornets vs Hawks Preview
Focusing on tonight’s matchup with Atlanta, the key is keeping Trae Young in check and forcing others to score. Having to rely on starters like De’Andre Hunter and Saddiq Bey for the main bulk of points will give Charlotte a better chance in this matchup. Also, the ability of shot makers to hit open shots for the hornets will be essential as C Clint Capela for Atlanta should have a good matchup against C Mark Williams.
Atlanta also boasts key bench players like PG Patty Mills, SG/SF Bogdan Bogdanovic, and C Onyeka Okongwu. Though Atlanta is seen as the favorite, a highlight opening game from LaMelo Ball and the boys could give Hornets coach Steve Clifford some confidence to begin the season.
Tip-off is set for 7:00.
