Hornets on a Hot Streak: Can They Push for the Play-In?

The Charlotte Hornets went on a three-game win streak for the first time since the trade deadline last season. After securing two gritty road victories in Utah and Chicago, followed by a hard-fought win over Dallas at home, the Hornets now find themselves only five games out of the play-in tournament. With the playoffs still within reach, could Charlotte make a push for the 10 seed in the East? Here’s a look at what has been working for the team as of late. 

Mark Williams

Mark Williams: The Man in the Middle 

Since his return from injury, Mark Williams has been nothing short of sensational. Over the past three games, Williams has averaged an impressive 21 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game, including a career-high 31 points in the win over Utah. His presence in the paint has been crucial, both offensively and defensively. The pick-and-roll chemistry between Williams and LaMelo Ball has been particularly effective, and his ability to secure key rebounds has helped the Hornets limit opponents' second-chance opportunities. With his combination of athleticism and basketball IQ, Williams has significantly raised the team's ceiling. 

Guard Play: Rising Stars Amid Injuries 

The Hornets have faced a significant challenge in their backcourt, with Brandon Miller potentially out for the remainder of the season due to a torn wrist ligament and Tre Mann sidelined for several months. However, an unexpected answer to their backcourt dilemma has emerged in Nick Smith Jr. 

Nick Smith Jr.

After being drafted in the late first round last year, Smith showed flashes of potential during his rookie season but had struggled to find consistency early in this campaign. However, with increased playing time due to injuries, Smith has seized the opportunity. In recent games, he has demonstrated an excellent three-point shooting touch and has made timely defensive plays, including in crucial moments. His offensive ability, particularly as a floor spacer, has helped alleviate some of the scoring burden on LaMelo Ball. With more opportunities coming his way, Smith could be a vital contributor for the remainder of the season and beyond. 

Miles Bridges

Miles Bridges: The Versatile Catalyst 

Miles Bridges has long been one of Charlotte’s most underrated players, and he continues to prove his value night after night. Whether it’s scoring, rebounding, playmaking, or defending, Bridges is consistently in the right place at the right time. In a team that occasionally struggles to find offensive flow, Bridges has recently provided a steady presence, averaging around 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. 

What stands out most about Bridges is his willingness to take on different roles for the team. He has embraced whatever the team needs him to do, whether that’s being a primary scorer or making a key defensive stop. As long as he remains healthy, Bridges will be a crucial part of the Hornets' push for the play-in and beyond. 

Coaching: Charles Lee’s System Finally Clicking 

While there was a lot of skepticism surrounding head coach Charles Lee earlier in the season, particularly regarding his late-game play calling and confusing rotations, it’s clear that his system is beginning to find its rhythm. With Mark Williams back in the starting lineup and LaMelo Ball making more winning plays, Lee’s approach has started to yield some results. His ability to make in-game adjustments and foster team chemistry has been critical to the team’s recent success. 

Lee deserves credit for keeping the team motivated despite the adversity they’ve faced this season, and his leadership will be vital as the Hornets aim for a late-season push. With the trade deadline approaching, the team will likely need to make some roster moves, but Lee has proven capable of getting the most out of his players in the meantime. The remainder of the season will be a true test of whether Lee can continue to elevate this team. 

Maintaining the Momentum 

A three-game win streak is extremely encouraging, but the Hornets cannot afford to take their foot off the gas. A play-in spot is finally within reach, but the team will need to remain focused for the second half of the season. The Hornets must continue to leverage their strengths, particularly the dominant performances from Mark Williams and the steady contributions from Miles Bridges, Nick Smith Jr., and Lamelo Ball.

Expect Charlotte to make some moves in the coming weeks. The team’s backcourt depth is currently being tested, and with players like Cody Martin, Josh Green, and Josh Okogie all offering similar skill sets, it would not be surprising to see one of them moved to address a more pressing need. Specifically, the Hornets could benefit from acquiring a power forward to bolster the front-court and help elevate the team as they make a push for the postseason. 

The Hornets must remain diligent and disciplined. If they continue to capitalize on their recent momentum and improve their roster in the following years, Charlotte could very well be a middle-of-the-pack/rising contender in the Eastern Conference. Only time will tell if the Hornets can make their way back to the playoffs, but with a mix of emerging talent and steady veteran contributions, the team is on the right path.

Images: Charlotte Hornets