The Charlotte Hornets continue to impress since their recent trade that brought in five new players. With a 111-102 victory over the Indiana Pacers, the Hornets have improved to 2-0 since the arrival of their new additions.
One of the standout players of the night was Miles Bridges, who contributed 20 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. Bridges showcased his versatility and played a vital role in the team's victory. However, it was not just him who shined on the court.
The new players, including Grant Williams, Seth Curry, Tre Mann, and Vasilije Micic, made an immediate impact on the offensive end for the Hornets. Williams led the team with 21 points, Curry added 18 off the bench, and Mann, who got the start, finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Micic provided stability and helped facilitate the team's solid ball movement.
Hornets coach Steve Clifford highlighted the significance of the team's newfound depth and experience. He noted that the addition of Williams allowed the Hornets to play with more spacing on the court, opening up driving lanes for Bridges, Mann, and Micic. With Williams on the court, the Hornets achieved a +14 point differential, emphasizing his positive influence on the team's performance.
Notably, the Pacers' Myles Turner had an impressive game with 22 points, and Aaron Nesmith contributed 21 points for Indiana. Despite their efforts, the Pacers fell short, leaving the locker room filled with disappointment. Tyrese Haliburton acknowledged that the team needed to mature and approach games with a different mindset.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed his disappointment with his team's approach and the rebounding margin in favor of the Hornets. The Pacers were unable to match the energy and intensity displayed by the Hornets, particularly in the fourth quarter, where Charlotte held the Pacers to just 22 points.
The Hornets have shown tremendous improvement since their trade, utilizing the fresh legs and skills of their new players. Williams has been a significant boost off the bench, providing physicality and a strong presence. Mann and Micic have impressed with their quickness and ability to create opportunities for their teammates.
Mann, in particular, has embraced his increased playing time after spending much of his previous team, the Thunder, on the bench. He expressed that playing without pressure and being able to learn through his mistakes has been beneficial for his growth as a player.
In the game against the Pacers, the Hornets took control in the fourth quarter. Curry's timely three-pointer and driving layup swung the momentum in their favor, followed by aggressive attacks that led to crucial baskets. Bridges added an exclamation point with a powerful dunk over Turner, igniting the home crowd.
Ultimately, Charlotte's efficient shooting, hitting 53.7% from the field, and the contribution from their bench players significantly contributed to their victory. The Hornets' bench outscored the Pacers' reserves 44-18, highlighting the depth and strength they now possess.
Looking ahead, the Pacers will face the Toronto Raptors in their next matchup, while the Hornets will close out their three-game homestand against the Atlanta Hawks. With their newfound roster balance and momentum, the Hornets will seek to build on their recent success and continue their climb up the standings.
