Charlotte Hornets Face Challenges with Key Players in 2024-2025 Season

The Charlotte Hornets have experienced a turbulent start to their 2024-2025 NBA season, currently holding a 4-7 record after three weeks of play. This performance includes victories that were followed by consecutive losses to teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers and the Orlando Magic, who were seen as beatable opponents. As the Hornets navigate the early season challenges, several players have emerged as disappointments in the eyes of fans and analysts alike.

One such player is Mark Williams. Despite initial excitement about his return this season, Williams has not played since December of the previous year due to a back injury. The former Duke standout was expected to make a significant impact this year; however, concerns are mounting due to his prolonged absence from contact or team drills, despite his reassurances about the severity of his injury.

Josh Green, acquired as a potentially underrated asset from the Dallas Mavericks, has also struggled to meet expectations. In his nine games thus far, Green has averaged a mere 4.6 points, 1.6 assists, and 1.1 rebounds, falling short of his anticipated defensive contribution. Green’s performance might be hampered by a recent Achilles injury, yet the timing is crucial for him to enhance his play, especially with teammates like Miles Bridges and Nick Richards also missing games. Cody Martin has outperformed Green, which could lead to changes in the starting lineup.

The Serbian guard Vasilije Micic has equally fallen short. Once expected to play a pivotal role, his preseason performance mirrored his struggle into the regular season, resulting in limited playing time. His averages of 2.8 points and 1.0 assists, with poor shooting percentages, have been a stark contrast to his previous successes, such as his contribution to the Serbian Olympic team‘s bronze medal win alongside Nikola Jokic.

Despite these player setbacks, the Hornets have been buoyed by the emergence of Moussa Diabate. The young French forward has taken advantage of the opportunity presented by injuries within the team, showcasing remarkable rebounding skills and energy. Diabate’s rebounding prowess is reflected in his leading average rebounds per 36 minutes and performances like his 15-rebound game against the Indiana Pacers.

Diabate’s recent assertiveness on offense culminated in a season-high of 12 points on 85.7% shooting in a game against the Magic, lifting his shooting percentage to an impressive 64.3%. His performances may prompt the Hornets’ management to consider converting his two-way contract into a standard one, providing him with a permanent spot on the roster.