Brandon Miller’s Third Season Struggles Raise Questions About Hornets’ Future
Through the first ten games of Brandon Miller’s second NBA season, he showcased his potential with averages of 16.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, while shooting 38.6% from the field and 33% from beyond the arc. Fast forward to the start of his third season, and Miller’s performance has taken a concerning turn. He is currently averaging 17.4 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.8 rebounds, but his shooting percentages have dipped to 36.4% from the field and a troubling 30.9% from three-point range.
Injury Woes and Missed Opportunities
Miller’s struggles have been compounded by a left shoulder injury that has sidelined him for more than half of the season. The former second overall pick entered the league with high expectations, finishing third in the Rookie of the Year voting behind standout talents Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. Charlotte Hornets fans were hopeful that Miller would emerge as a dynamic partner for LaMelo Ball, but his second season was cut short due to a wrist injury that occurred just as he began to find his rhythm. In the 17 games leading up to that injury, Miller was averaging an impressive 23.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, suggesting that a significant leap was on the horizon.
The third season is often a critical turning point for players, especially wings. Many stars, including Jayson Tatum, Kawhi Leonard, and Anthony Edwards, have experienced substantial growth during this stage of their careers. Yet, as Miller’s early-season statistics mirror those of his rookie year, questions about his trajectory and the Hornets’ future loom large.
Assessing the Early Sample Size
Despite the initial concerns, it may be premature to panic. Observing just ten games provides limited insight into a player’s true potential. Miller has attempted 165 shots this season, with 81 of those being three-pointers. Players who rely heavily on their jump shots often experience fluctuations in their performance, and a small sample size can lead to dramatic swings in percentages.
Last season serves as a reminder of this reality. After a rough start, Miller’s shooting numbers improved significantly as the season progressed. Had he avoided the wrist injury, there’s a strong possibility his final averages would have reflected a more polished player, potentially finishing around 45-47% from the field and 38-39% from three-point range.
The Path Forward for Miller and the Hornets
The shoulder injury could very well be impacting his shooting form at present. However, what remains encouraging is Miller’s unwavering confidence on the court. He continues to take shots rather than shying away from opportunities, which speaks volumes about his mindset. If he were to start passing up looks or settling for worse shot selections, that would be a cause for concern. Instead, Miller’s determination suggests that he is on the right path, and with time, his shooting numbers are likely to stabilize.
As the season unfolds, the Hornets and their fans will be watching closely to see if Miller can recapture the form that made him a promising prospect. The stakes are high, and the potential for growth remains, but the journey is still in its early stages.
