The 2023-24 Charlotte Hornets had a lot to compensate for when it came to their key guys missing time. When the opportunity presents itself, you have to be able to take advantage of the minutes given to you. It would be opportunistic if I could describe the small-forward group for the Charlotte Hornets this season. When players went down, the guys stepped in and made themselves available. It was the best group on the Hornets roster this season.
Bridges and Miller were thrust into various roles, some familiar and others less so. Despite their positions’ uncertainties, they managed to put together impressive seasons. Even during pre-season controversies, they remained focused on the game. As we delve into the performance of the small forwards who represented the Charlotte Hornets in the 2023-24 season, it’s worth examining their stats, playing styles, and overall impact on the team’s performance.
Miles Bridges
After a year-long absence from the 22-23 season and the first ten games of the 23-24 season, Bridges made a triumphant return. His performance on the court was a testament to his resilience, as he played like a man who hadn’t missed a beat. Despite harsh criticisms, Bridges remained unfazed and delivered a solid performance, ending the season as the team’s third-leading scorer (21.0 PPG). The question now is, will Bridges continue his journey with the Hornets? With his one-year deal complete, other teams may be eager to secure a versatile forward with highlight-reel ability.
Pros
The biggest strength of Bridges and his season was his comeback. There were perceptions about Bridges struggling this season and not getting back to that 21-22 level where he was 7th in most improved player voting, but he did just that. He was a 52% two-point shooter and shot 69% from 0-3 feet. Those numbers were a slight dip from his 21-22 season, but they are still elite. Bridges was still an athletic gem with his ability to make highlight plays, and his three-point shooting slightly improved.
Cons
Like all of the Charlotte Hornets players this season, Bridges was not good on the defensive end. The team faired better with Bridges not on the floor vs. him being on the floor (122.1 on vs. 117.6 off). When you think about the things he faced and the possibility of not being on the court, it weighs heavy on his mind, and for him to return as he did was impressive. We all have our thoughts and opinions on how the Hornet’rs handle the situation, but that’s beside’ the point.
Grade: B+
Brandon Miller
Another player who was coming into the 23-24 NBA season with a bunch of adversity from off-the-court issues was Brandon Miller. The talent to make him the 2nd overall pick was on full display in Alabama, but questions about his maturity came into play. Despite the early season distractions, Miller had a solid rookie season, averaging 17.3 points. Miller has been on record saying that Paul George was his GOAT, and you can see the resemblance in their games.
Pros
With the injuries to LaMelo Ball, the past two seasons, and the trade of Terry Rozier, Charlotte was searching for the closer. Brandon Miller showcased an ability to be that late-game closer, which makes the future dynamic of the Hornets fun. Another aspect of Brandon Miller’s game that made him effective this season was his close shot (67%). Miller also shot above average from the three-point line (37%).
Cons
As good as Brandon Miller was this season, there’s no way he should’ve been playing the bulk of his minutes at power forward. Miller played 50% of the time in the power forward position, which exposed him defensively. He was also a questionable shot-taker. I would like to see him improve on that if he is to continue developing his offensive game.
Grade: B
Cody Martin
Drafted with the 36th pick in the 2019 NBA draft, Cody Martin has been a valuable piece for the Hornets since being selected. One thing that’s been an Achilles heel for Martin is his inability to stay healthy. I would like to see Martin put it together for an entire season.
Pros
Cody Martin was impactful on the defensive end for the team. The teams scored 118.6 when Martin was on the floor compared to 121.6 when he wasn’t. In the 22 games he played as a starter, Martin averaged 7.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists. His numbers across the board improved, but it’s easy to improve your numbers when you’ve played just seven games.
Cons
Martin has played in just 35 games the past two seasons. He has to stay healthy for this team. The impact he had defensively wasn’t felt on the offensive end for the Hornets, as the team performed slightly better with him off the floor (109.1 on vs. 110.1 off).
Grade: D
Leaky Black
Leaky Black was a five-year player at the University of North Carolina; Black went undrafted in the 2023 NBA draft. He would sign a two-way deal with the Hornets during the summer and played in 26 games, splitting time in Charlotte and Greensboro.
Pros
Comparing his time from the G-league to the Hornets, Black was a much better field goal and three-point shooter. Black also showcased the potential to be a good defender (1.0 steals and 1.4 blocks per 36).
Cons
Black got his opportunity to play due to the injuries the Hornets had. Something tells me those minutes won’t be there for him once everyone is healthy. The sample size was solid but wasn’t enough to keep him going with consistent minutes.
Grade: D+
In Conclusion
The small forward position for the Hornets left a lot to be desired. I loved that the main guys competed despite everything going on around them. The offseason will be interesting to see if Miles Bridges stays with the team. Overall, it was a solid season with room for improvement.
Overall Grade: C
West Coast Hoops 