Previewing Wizards Home Opener vs. Hornets

The 1-1 Washington Wizards are in DC for the first time this season, taking on the 1-1 Charlotte Hornets. Charlotte has shown some promise this year, but on paper they are the worst team Washington has played thus far. Hornets star Brandon Miller is also listed as unavailable tonight, pushing the Wizards home opener ever more in their favor. 

Star Power

Even though the Hornets aren’t the best team Washington has faced, they are still formidable opponents. Much like the Wizards, Charlotte too has proven to have a dynamic offense, led by All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball. When healthy, Ball has proven to be one of the best scorers and playmakers in this league, capable of taking over games. He is potent in transition, using his length and playmaking ability to get to his spots and set teammates up for easy buckets. Along with being a great player in the half court, capable of playing in structure or out of isolation. 

Part of what makes Ball so good is his ability to get his teammates involved. Players like Miles Bridges and Ryan Kalkbrenner have reaped the benefits of his playmaking prowess, along with providing their own unique skillsets. Bridgers, of course, is a freak athlete who lives above the rim, particularly in transition. He is also capable as a scorer in the half court, using his threat as a shooter to punish poor closeouts and get to the basket. Kalkbrenner is a much more traditional big-man. He's tall, sets hard screens and can step out and shoot the occasional three ball. In other words, he is the perfect complement to Ball’s skillset. Kalkbrenner is capable of being taken advantage of defensively, especially when matched up with more athletic bigs, so look for Alex Sarr to have a big day.