Even in the good times, the Charlotte Hornets are unable to enjoy some positive moments.
But they’ll be back on Monday afternoon when the Dallas Mavericks visit.
The Hornets, who are looking for their first three-game win of the season, are coming off the loss of swingman Brandon Miller, who suffered a serious wrist injury.
There are injury questions for the Mavericks as well, so the teams health is sure to be a factor.
The Hornets are back home after a five-game road trip. But two games in Los Angeles were postponed due to the California wildfires, so the match ended in a 2–1 tie.
Normally, this would be considered super for Charlotte. But Miller’s injury soured the mood, so much so that guard LaMelo Ball called it a “tough time” for the team.
The Hornets were without Miller during Friday night’s 125-123 win at Chicago, with information revealed after the game about the potential extent of his absence. He suffered the injury two nights ago in Utah.
To fill the void left by Miller, the Hornets could call up Josh Okogie, who was acquired several days ago in a deal that sent center Nick Richards to the Phoenix Suns.
Hornets coach Charles Lee said of Okogie, “I think he’s a jack of all trades and we’re very excited about what he’s going to bring to our group.” “I think right away, he brings a great defensive presence to our team. His knowledge of the league and trends.”
Charlotte’s Nick Smith Jr. made his first NBA start and logged 26 minutes on Friday, while Seth Curry played 18 minutes off the bench. Each was given 15 marks.
Miller is averaging 21.0 points per game, although this will be his second long-term injury-related absence of the season.
“We kind of have to come together and help him with his rehabilitation,” Lee said.
Dallas also hasn’t played since Friday when it won 106-98 at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Kyrie Irving scored 25 points to lead the Mavericks in scoring for the first time since December 28.
“Amazing,” said teammate Naji Marshall. “He just put us on (his) back.”
Irving played only three games in January due to a back injury. He appeared for 39 minutes on Friday night, but said it was still a process of getting back to form.
“Just keep moving in the right direction so I don’t make a mistake and have to have surgery,” Irving said. “I’m feeling much better…taking my time and being patient.”
Despite a few days off, the Mavericks could be in trouble entering Monday’s game. Jaden Hardee missed Friday’s game with a right ankle injury and Dwight Powell missed the game with a hip soreness. Neither player returned to action.
Since Christmas Day, the Mavericks have lost nine of 13 games. Dallas has canceled its last five road trips.
So after defeating one of the top teams in the NBA, the Mavericks will look to keep the momentum going against one of the worst clubs in the league.
It’s a return to Charlotte for Mavericks forward PJ Washington, who spent nearly five years with the Hornets to begin his professional career.
Washington has started in 34 of the 35 games he has played for Dallas this season, averaging 13.1 points and a career-best 7.8 rebounds per game.
–Field Level Media
