Hornets Have Internal Solution to Address Brandon Miller’s Weakness
Brandon Miller seems to have shaken off his recent slump. After struggling with a 29.6% shooting percentage over four games, where he averaged 14.5 points per game, he bounced back with 33.5 points per game on 60.5% shooting in the Charlotte Hornets’ loss to the Brooklyn Nets and their win over the Detroit Pistons.
His standout performance against the Pistons was especially encouraging for Hornets fans, as the team had a challenging game despite securing the win. They had a comfortable 14-point lead heading into the fourth quarter, but it quickly diminished, forcing the game into overtime.
Luckily, Miller stepped up. In overtime, he scored eight points in just 1:11, ultimately finishing with 38 points and leading Charlotte to a 123-121 victory.
Miller Needs to Keep Working with Assistant Coach and Franchise Legend
However, Miller’s impressive night was slightly overshadowed by a season-high seven turnovers. The Pistons’ defense made it tough for him to find his rhythm. Still, Miller’s hot shooting from the outside allowed him to become the Hornets’ hero.
Hornets head coach Charles Lee praised the 22-year-old’s ability to adapt to defensive schemes during the preseason, but that skill has been inconsistent this season. It’s likely due to Miller’s need to improve his ball-handling ability.
While Miller’s ball control is good enough for occasional drives, his aspirations to become a star at shooting guard and small forward will require more consistent and advanced dribbling skills. He could look to his idol, Paul George, whose smooth handles are often compared to those of Kyrie Irving.
It may take some time for Miller to develop a more versatile offensive game. The good news is, Charlotte already has someone who can help: Kemba Walker.
After retiring from playing, the Hornets’ former star joined the organization as a player enhancement coach. This gives him the perfect opportunity to work with Miller, the team’s No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 draft.
Walker, known for having some of the best handles in recent NBA history, could be the perfect mentor to help Miller improve his ball-handling. A few months of working with “Cardiac Kemba” could do wonders for Miller’s game. If he can refine his dribbling skills, he could quickly establish himself as one of the league’s top players.
Leave a Reply