The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Brooklyn Nets in the opening game.
It was a balanced offense for the Charlotte Hornets, who had nine players finish in double figures.
Brandon Miller led all scorers with 25 points, and LaMelo Ball was right behind him with 20 points.
The Hornets were a lottery team last season, but they have a lot of talent that could make a big jump in the East.
Ball is also gifted offensively, and teammate Miller praised his defense.
He said Ball developed a competitive spirit on the defensive end.
Ball’s defense has come under fire in the past for his inability to keep attacking the ball on that end of the floor.
“I’ve seen him throw a lot of lobs, but one of the things people don’t talk about a lot is his competitiveness on the defensive side of the ball. That’s one thing he’s worked on. He had a great summer.”
The Hornets are expected to improve further this season if they can stay healthy.
Ball and Miller are two of the East’s up-and-coming players, and Conn Knuppel was a sure-fire draft pick by the Hornets.
There may be a chance for the Hornets to sneak up on a team and earn a play-in spot.
If that happens, the Hornets will have a chance to end their nine-year playoff drought.