Brandon Miller’s recent performance has ignited excitement among fans of the Charlotte Hornets. The young player has showcased not only his scoring ability but also his potential to evolve into a versatile playmaker.
Brandon Miller’s Development as a Playmaker
This season, Miller is making strides in assisting his teammates, which is critical for the team’s success. His current assist rate stands at 18.0 percent, ranking him in the 89th percentile among wing players. Some stats from Basketball-Reference suggest an even higher assist rate of 18.5 percent.
Despite this progress, Miller has faced challenges. He has recorded games with zero assists, including two recent outings. Nevertheless, many observers believe he is on the right track, based both on statistics and overall performance.
The Hornets’ Playmaking Predicament
- LaMelo Ball is the only consistent playmaker on the team.
- The Hornets struggle offensively when Ball is unavailable.
- Miles Bridges and Collin Sexton have contributed, but both have struggled with initiating plays.
Miller’s ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and others could relieve some pressure during Ball’s absence. While his handles and court vision still require refinement, there are moments when he shows promise as a facilitator.
The Need for a Reliable Point Guard
Charlotte’s front office is aware that enhancing their playmaking options is crucial. Currently, KJ Simpson is the only other true point guard on the roster, yet he has not demonstrated the capacity to become an effective playmaker. Interestingly, Collin Sexton has a higher assist percentage than Simpson during the ongoing 2025-26 season.
Potential and Growth Mindset of Brandon Miller
Asking Miller to shoulder the playmaker role might seem like a significant expectation, yet his adaptability hints at a bright future. His performance over his first three years shows a willingness to grow and evolve.
Miller has expressed interest in improving his defensive skills as well. While he has not mastered on-ball defense, his help defense has drawn praise from analysts. The organization aspires to contend for championships, and many believe that with Miller’s continuous improvement, this dream could be within reach.
In summary, the Hornets’ hopes for the future are intertwined with Brandon Miller’s ongoing development. As he becomes more adept at playmaking and other roles, the team’s outlook appears brighter.
