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Hornets Focus on Future Despite Losing Record

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, January 22nd 2026 at 22:33 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Charlotte Hornets: A Foundation for the Future Despite Current Struggles

MILWAUKEE - The Charlotte Hornets are demonstrably not a championship contender right now. That much was clear in Wednesday night's 126-112 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. However, a recent string of games, including a victory over the Orlando Magic, has sparked cautious optimism about the team's long-term trajectory, particularly fueled by the performance of rookie standout Brandon Miller. While acknowledging the considerable gap that separates them from the league's elite, Miller's post-game comments reflected a belief that the Hornets can, indeed, bridge that divide.

The current Hornets record stands at 7-27, placing them firmly at the bottom of the NBA standings. This isn't a situation that's unexpected; the franchise is deliberately rebuilding, focusing on developing a young core around players like Miller, point guard LaMelo Ball, and center Mark Williams. Head Coach Steve Clifford has consistently emphasized patience, a vital commodity during a rebuilding phase, and has stressed that nights like the one in Milwaukee are inevitable learning experiences. His focus remains on ensuring the players are competing with the right attitude and consistently striving to improve.

Brandon Miller, the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, has exceeded many expectations. He's proving to be a crucial piece of the Hornets' future, currently averaging a solid 14.8 points per game on 40.9% shooting, alongside 6.3 rebounds. More than just raw statistics, Miller's impact is evident in his ability to hit clutch shots and facilitate opportunities for his teammates. He possesses a maturity beyond his rookie status, understanding the complexities of the game and demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt.

The Hornets' recent victory over the Magic, albeit against a team also experiencing challenges, highlighted moments of genuine potential. It showed glimpses of the offensive synergy that can be achieved when Ball and Miller are operating at their best. However, the loss to the Bucks underscored the current limitations: inconsistent defensive execution, struggles against experienced offensive firepower, and a reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. The gap isn't just about talent; it's about experience, chemistry, and the execution of a complex, winning system.

The challenge for the Hornets isn't just about individual player development, but also about fostering a cohesive team identity and establishing a sustainable winning culture. This requires more than just showcasing individual talent; it necessitates a commitment to rigorous training, detailed film study, and a strong emphasis on accountability. The front office's strategy involves a long-term vision, acknowledging that immediate success is unlikely but prioritizing the establishment of a solid foundation for future contention. The current season serves as a crucial period for assessment and refinement, allowing the coaching staff to identify areas for improvement and mold the young players into a cohesive unit.

While playoff aspirations are unrealistic for this season, the message being conveyed to the Hornets' fanbase is one of hope and progress. The team isn't asking for instant gratification; they're building something that they believe will be sustainable. Brandon Miller's confidence, despite the losses, is contagious. His simple statement - "I think we can [bridge the gap]...we just gotta keep working" - encapsulates the Hornets' current approach: embrace the grind, learn from the setbacks, and relentlessly pursue continuous improvement. The journey will be long, but the seeds of a promising future are being sown in Charlotte.