Key Takeaways

• Daniels swiped seven steals against the Hornets, highlighted by backcourt pressure on rookie Christian Anderson, setting the tone for a dominant defensive performance.
• Across the first two games of the season, Daniels has accumulated 12 steals, reinforcing his reputation as a defensive stopper despite ongoing questions about his shooting.
• Offensively, Daniels contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, and four assists in the win, showing impact beyond defense but still without a made three-pointer after extensive offseason work.
• Charlotte played without LaMelo Ball, which contributed to the absence of a consistent primary ballhandler and playmaker for the offense.
• Jalen Johnson and Aaron Wiggins led Atlanta with 19 points each, providing the bulk of the scoring as the Hawks delivered the franchise’s largest margin of defeat for the Hornets.
• The victory improved Atlanta to 2-0 and sets up a home opener against the Houston Rockets, where the team hopes to extend its perfect start to 3-0.
• Daniels’ performance is framed as proof of his defensive ceiling while underscoring the need for continued offensive development to complement that impact.