The Charlotte Hornets are rewriting the script on how to run an elite NBA offense-and they’re doing it at their own pace. Literally.
While most high-powered offenses thrive by pushing the tempo and racking up fastbreak points, the Hornets have zagged in a league that loves to zig. Despite boasting dynamic athletes like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, Charlotte ranks near the bottom of the league in pace and sits 23rd in average time to shoot.
But don’t mistake that for inefficiency. This team isn’t slow-they’re deliberate.
And it’s working.
Methodical, Not Muddled
What sets the Hornets apart is how they weaponize movement without rushing. They lead the league in total distance traveled on offense, meaning players are constantly relocating, cutting, screening, and repositioning-not just standing in place waiting for something to happen. It’s a motion-heavy system that grinds down the shot clock until the best shot presents itself.
That commitment to off-ball movement has paid off. January saw Charlotte field the league’s most efficient offense, a stretch fueled not by transition buckets but by halfcourt execution, unselfish play, and smart decision-making.
LaMelo’s Vision, Miller’s Versatility, and Bridges’ Buy-In
LaMelo Ball remains the engine. His flair in transition is still there-those highlight-worthy alley-oops to Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller haven’t gone anywhere-but what’s elevated the Hornets’ offense is how Ball has adapted to a more controlled tempo. His court vision thrives in a system that values patience, and he’s developed a strong rhythm with both Miller and Bridges.
Miller continues to show why he was such a high pick, blending shot-making with positional flexibility. And while Bridges is known for his explosiveness, he’s taken a more measured approach this season, picking his spots and deferring when needed. That kind of maturity has made Charlotte’s offense more balanced and unpredictable.
Then there’s Kon Knueppel, who’s quietly become a key piece in transition. He isn’t leading the break, but he’s making smart reads-finding open space beyond the arc or slipping into lanes for easy finishes. He’s not flashy, but he’s effective.
Second-Chance Kings
One of the more underrated aspects of Charlotte’s offensive success? Their work on the glass.
Charles Lee has leaned into the strengths of his roster, and unleashing Diabate has been one of his better moves. Diabate’s relentless effort on the boards has helped the Hornets become one of the league’s top teams in second-chance points.
That’s been a crucial edge, especially in games where the first look doesn’t fall.
Bench Questions, But No Panic
If there’s one area that still needs polish, it’s the second unit. Scoring and playmaking off the bench have been inconsistent, and that’s something to monitor as the season progresses.
But Lee has shown he can maximize the pieces he has, and help is on the way. Once Coby White is back to full strength and fully integrated into the system, that second unit could get a serious boost.
The Bigger Picture
Charlotte’s February hasn’t matched the fireworks of January-they’ve cracked 110 points just once in five games-but the foundation is solid. The Hornets have proven they don’t need to run teams out of the gym to put up points. Their offense is built on trust, timing, and tactical execution.
Charles Lee deserves a ton of credit for getting his team to buy into a style that bucks the league’s trends. It’s not about pace-it’s about purpose. And right now, the Hornets are playing with plenty of it.