Key Takeaways

• The Hornets were outrun from the start as the Hawks jumped to a hot start, while Charlotte’s offense could not penetrate interior defense and repeatedly kicked the ball away. The team compiled 27 turnovers, with 17 live-ball turnovers leading to Hawks run-outs and easy scores.
• Brandon Miller, billed as the franchise cornerstone, shot 2-for-14 overall (1-for-3 inside the arc) after attempting 11 of his 14 attempts from three; his efficiency through two games sits at roughly 25.7% from the field and 16% from three, accompanied by just one assist and five rebounds.
• Sion James struggled in the starting role, producing another 1-for-6 night from beyond the arc in a lineup that was intended to feature Kon Knueppel; he appeared to lack confidence on open looks despite opportunities.
• The home crowd’s frustration spilled into boos at multiple breaks, with the arena thinning to about two-thirds empty by the start of the fourth quarter, reflecting broader discontent with offseason changes and perceived efforts.
• Hannes Steinbach and Tidjane Salaun contributed some late-second-half baskets and rebounding presence, but their impact did not alter the outcome or momentum.
• Naz Reid showed a passable offensive outing but was hampered by turnovers, reinforcing the overall theme that ball control and decision-making were major issues.
• The Hornets’ next test comes quickly, with a road game against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the 0-2 Miami Heat, underscoring the immediate need for adjustments and better execution.