Key Takeaways

• Miller’s rookie-scale extension is the largest in Hornets history, signed ahead of the 2026-27 season, and celebrated at a Spectrum Center ceremony. The contract underscores the franchise’s commitment to a core player who was the No. 2 overall pick in 2023 and posted strong numbers prior to an injury.
• Charlotte has not reached the postseason since 2016 and has not won a playoff series in 24 years, framing Miller’s signing as a critical step in closing a long-standing gap in competitive success.
• The Hornets traded away LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges in the offseason as they retooled around Miller and the influx of new teammates, seeking a veteran presence to accelerate development and on-court identity.
• Opening the season with a 110-103 win at Brooklyn, Reid led with a near double-double, while Miller scored 18 points in his first game after signing but shot poorly from three and was limited in the second half.
• Miller battled a shoulder injury last season, playing 65 games with averages around 20 points per game and solid three-point shooting, and is now reported as healthy for the upcoming campaign.
• Hornets executive VP Jeff Peterson emphasized Miller’s work ethic, drive, and leadership as foundational to earning the long-term commitment and to motivating teammates toward peak performance.
• The organization frames the deal as not only a short-term guarantee but a long-term investment in Miller’s development and in the team’s broader goal of becoming a playoff-caliber franchise.