Around the NBA: Hornets Stay Patient, Magic Await Suggs Update, Oubre Progressing for Sixers
With the NBA season starting to take shape, a few teams are navigating early adversity in very different ways. From Charlotte’s cautious optimism to Orlando’s injury concerns and Philly’s slow-play rehab approach, here’s what’s happening around the league.
Hornets Staying the Course Despite 8-18 Start
The Hornets aren’t panicking, and that’s by design.
Despite an 8-18 record, Charlotte is holding firm on its long-term vision. According to reports, the organization is not feeling pressure to shake up the roster. Instead, the focus remains on evaluating the young core - and rookie Kon Knueppel is already turning heads internally.
Knueppel, who has quickly emerged as a key part of the Hornets’ future, is being viewed as a foundational piece alongside LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Miles Bridges. The front office wants to see that group together for an extended stretch before making any major decisions. There’s a belief that if that core can stay healthy, a play-in push isn’t out of the question.
That belief got a small boost on Sunday. In a gritty overtime win against Cleveland, Miller briefly exited with what looked like a shoulder issue but returned to hit a clutch three-pointer late in regulation. It was a moment that didn’t just help seal the win - it also showcased Miller’s resilience and growth.
Head coach Charles Lee called it “a huge growth moment,” and pointed to Miller’s work on the glass - 13 rebounds - as a sign of his two-way potential. It’s performances like that which reinforce Charlotte’s decision to stay patient and let this young group develop together.
Magic Dealing With Suggs Injury After Strong Night
In Orlando, the Magic are taking a wait-and-see approach with guard Jalen Suggs after he suffered a left hip contusion during Saturday’s NBA Cup game against the Knicks.
Suggs had been in the middle of a standout performance - 26 points and seven assists in just 29 minutes - before going down on a drive in the third quarter. An MRI confirmed the contusion, and his return will depend on how he responds to treatment in the coming days.
Suggs has been a steady presence for the Magic this season, averaging 15.4 points and 4.8 assists. If he misses time, Orlando will likely lean on a mix of Tyus Jones, rookie Anthony Black, and Jett Howard to help fill the backcourt gap.
The Magic have been one of the league’s early surprises, and Suggs has played a big role in that. How they manage this stretch without him - however long it lasts - could say a lot about their staying power in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
Kelly Oubre Jr. Making Progress, But Still No Return Date
In Philadelphia, Kelly Oubre Jr. is inching closer to a return - but he’s not quite there yet.
The veteran wing, who’s been out since Nov. 14 with a left knee ligament sprain, recently completed his first individual on-court workout since the injury. That’s a positive step, but he still hasn’t been cleared for full practice.
Head coach Nick Nurse gave a brief update, saying, “Nothing new. I’m hoping there’s some progress there.” It’s a cautious tone, but one that reflects the team’s approach: slow and steady.
Oubre had been a spark plug for the Sixers before the injury, and his return could give Philly another versatile scoring option on the wing. But for now, the Sixers are staying patient, letting the rehab process play out.
Bottom Line
It’s still early in the season, but for teams like the Hornets, Magic, and Sixers, the next few weeks will be about managing expectations, injuries, and development. Whether it's Charlotte banking on youth, Orlando bracing for a short-term absence, or Philly keeping a close eye on Oubre’s knee, patience is the common thread - and how each team handles it could shape their season.