Stay Calm, Hornets Fans—Charles Lee Has a Plan

When the Charlotte Hornets hired Charles Lee, expectations were sky-high. Fresh off a championship run as an assistant with the Boston Celtics, Lee’s blend of offensive creativity and defensive discipline was billed as the perfect fit for a franchise desperate for direction. But 103 games into his tenure, the glow has faded, and fundamental questions about his future are starting to form.

The Hornets sit at 25–78 under Lee, ranking 20th in scoring (115.2 PPG) and 24th in opponent scoring (120.0 PPG) — numbers that point to a team still searching for an identity. Combine that with the growing whispers about tension between Lee and LaMelo Ball, and the marriage that once seemed ideal now feels uncertain.

And yet, given the state of the roster, Lee has squeezed more out of this group than the record might suggest. So what’s actually working? What isn’t? And is there truly friction between coach and star, or simply the uncomfortable honesty that comes with a rebuild? Let’s dive in.

When Talent Meets Tough Love

One of the biggest storylines around the Hornets this season has been Lee’s willingness to sit his star guard. There’s no denying Ball’s talent or what he’s capable of bringing to the table. Through 14 games, he’s averaging 18.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists — numbers that show the tools of an elite point guard if he plays to his strengths.

But the problem, at times, is consistency. Ball is shooting just 37.8% from the field and 28.3% from three, much of which stems from questionable shot selection and possessions that drift outside the structure of Lee’s offense.

When that happens, Lee doesn’t hesitate. He’ll sit Ball and let the rest of the roster grind it out. In the Hornets’ 118–111 comeback win over the upstart Toronto Raptors, Lee benched both Ball and Brandon Miller. Down 10 points, the Hornets ripped off a 26–8 run to take the game. The message was clear: no matter your name or talent, if you don’t produce, you sit.

Charles Lee’s Calm in Hornets Chaos

Since taking the job, Lee has been forced to make the most out of a roster that’s been hit with key injuries. Even with those limitations, the players who are available consistently compete. This group may lack the talent and depth of other teams, but Lee has them prepared to contribute every night.

Stars and role players must show up consistently for any NBA team to grow. The Hornets understand their desired identity, but constant injuries have slowed that progress. Lee is coaching through chaos, yet his structure and standards have kept this young group afloat.

In Conclusion

Rebuilds are rarely smooth, and the Charlotte Hornets’ path under Charles Lee has been unstable. Injuries and lineup changes have slowed progress. The roster is still searching for a clear identity. Even with that noise, Lee has coached with purpose. He demands accountability from everyone. He develops young talent and pushes habits that matter.

The record is not where fans want it. Any tension with a star will raise concerns. But Lee has not had a healthy roster for long. He has not enjoyed the level of consistency needed to run his entire system. Judging him now feels premature and unfair.

For now, Hornets fans should take a breath. Let the roster get healthy first. Let the young core keep growing. Could you give Lee the chance to run his plan? Things can look different once this group plays together. Lee deserves the opportunity to coach the team he was hired to lead.