The Charlotte Hornets started the season 3-1. They were close to a 4-0 record, but the Boston Celtics won in overtime on Tuesday. Still, the first four games gave us some interesting perspectives about the Hornets that are worth discussing. Just because they are the main reason the team can be considered a legitimate contender for this season.
Miles Bridges is a completely different player
In the first four games of the 2021-22 season, Bridges averaged a staggering 25.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game. That's a big improvement over his 12.7 points and 6.0 rebounds per game last year. Obviously, there are still a lot of games to play, and as the season continues, Bridges' averages are likely to return to normal. In the first few games, however, fans saw a more calm and patient version of him, at least on the offensive end.
Prior to this year, Bridges was considered a supersport striker who could jump off the roof and slam the ball with authority. He also has a three-pointer, and he's not shy about showing off. This season, all of these tools are still in his skills, but more perfect than ever. He is also more reliable in the middle distance now. He wouldn't hesitate to shoot near the free throw line or even work on the inside.
When there is chemistry between Bridges and the confident ball, his personal progress will make him level up. Don't be surprised if Bridges makes the "best progressive player" and even an All-Star.
Reliable workbench led by Ish Smith
When Smith was introduced in the offseason, he was expected to be a veteran in the dressing room, as well as a mentor for Lamelo. As a result, analysts believe the Hornets need to further strengthen their bench. LaMelo needed a more reliable back-up. But so far, in the first four games, Smith has been a fantastic player. He averaged 10.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game.
The man is 33 years old but still one of the fastest and most cunning defenders. Head coach James Borrego trusted Smith so much that smith was scheduled to play in the final minutes of their 111-95 win over the Brooklyn Nets.
In addition to Smith, people like Cody Martin, Jaylen McDaniels and P.J. Washington all played a meaningful few minutes for Borrego. Kelly Ubull Jr., who started in place of injured Terry Rozier, was also strong. If Rozier comes back and Ulburi is relegated to the bench, we should expect the latter to still have a good impact.
Mason Plumley's offensive organization
Like Smith, not everyone was too excited when the Hornets got Primeley as a center. It's not because Plumlee is a terrible player, but some people feel the team needs a modern center – a more nimble player, a player with depth. Plumlee doesn't quite fit these descriptions. He's the kind of guy who likes to stain himself in paint. He loves sports, hitting boards, hitting balls.
But in their first four games so far, Plumlee's organizational prowess stands out. So far, he's averaging 2.7 assists per game, higher than the center's average of assists per game. The data shows that passing is indeed one of his hidden strengths. Last season, he actually finished fifth on the center assists list. In the previous season, he finished seventh. Primeley's passing numbers aren't that high, but it definitely helps when you have another player with that innate skill.
This helps the Hornets' smooth dribbling, which is a good reason for their strong start. Primeley doesn't always rush to score after receiving a beautiful pass from Lamelo. Often, he is always looking for the best option possible. If it was necessary to pass the stone, he would do so.