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Hornets' Offense Exceeds Scoring Average with Smart Play

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, January 27th 2026 at 10:21 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: North Carolina, UNITED STATES

Beyond the Raw Numbers: A Deeper Look

While the Hornets' scoring average of 117.8 points per game places them 21st in the league - a respectable but not spectacular figure - their offensive rating of 115.8 sits at 15th, demonstrating a level of effectiveness that transcends simple point totals. This, coupled with their impressive 12th ranking in assists per game (26.2), paints a picture of an offense that is both productive and well-distributed. It's not merely about putting the ball in the basket; it's about how they're doing it.

Lee's analysis zeroes in on three crucial elements that seem to be the bedrock of the Hornets' improved offensive performance: unselfishness, strategic spacing, and, crucially, individual player development. These pillars, when combined, have created a system that is proving difficult for opponents to defend.

The Power of 'We': Unselfishness and Trust

The Hornets' offensive philosophy appears to be rooted in a team-first mentality. Lee emphasized that the players are prioritizing creating the best shot, not necessarily the most convenient one for themselves. This manifests in a commitment to passing the ball, constantly relocating to create openings, and actively seeking opportunities to elevate their teammates' games. "They're playing for each other," Lee observed, "They're trusting each other, and they're finding ways to make one another better." This sentiment highlights a crucial element often missing in modern basketball - genuine camaraderie and a shared purpose beyond individual statistics.

Creating Lanes: The Importance of Spacing

Effective spacing is a critical component of any successful offense, and the Hornets are clearly executing it well. Lee noted that the team is actively utilizing the entire floor, preventing defenders from collapsing and effectively shutting down key players. This floor spreading opens up driving lanes for guards like LaMelo Ball, while also creating more opportunities for post play and inside scoring for the Hornets' big men. A congested offense is predictable; a spread offense forces constant adjustments and presents multiple attacking options.

Individual Growth Fuels Collective Success

The Hornets' offensive resurgence isn't solely attributable to coaching or scheme. Individual player development has played a vital role. Brandon Miller, the highly-touted rookie, is "really starting to find his rhythm," contributing 13.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Veteran Terry Rozier is playing exceptional basketball, averaging 23.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Most significantly, the return of LaMelo Ball has injected a significant dose of dynamism and creativity into the offense. His impressive statistics - 24.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 8.4 assists - underscore his value as a playmaker and a scoring threat.

A Work in Progress, But Full of Promise

While the Hornets' overall record remains a challenge, the team's offensive performance provides a foundation for future success. The emphasis on unselfishness, thoughtful spacing, and continued player development has transformed their offensive capabilities. The current season serves as a valuable learning experience and a testament to the potential of a team that prioritizes collective growth and a collaborative approach to basketball. The Hornets are a team to watch, not just for their offensive flair, but also for the lessons they offer about teamwork and player development in the modern NBA.