The Charlotte Hornets have ripped up the script for the 2025-26 season, transforming from a bottom-feeder to a legitimate NBA Play-In Tournament threat with an electrifying surge that has captivated Buzz City. After a dismal 11-22 start to the season, the Hornets have ignited, posting a phenomenal 16-9 record since January 1st. This dramatic turnaround has them sitting at 27-31 overall, firmly in the hunt for postseason action.
Here's why the Hornets are soaring:
- A stunning post-January surge with an elite offense and improved defense.
- Record-breaking road performance, including a historic point differential.
- Dominance on the glass, securing crucial second-chance opportunities.
- The healthy return and explosive chemistry of a talented young core.
- The undeniable impact of rookie sensation Kon Knueppel.
Charlotte's Offensive Explosion
Gone are the days of an anemic offense. The Charlotte Hornets have flipped a switch, morphing into an offensive powerhouse. During the initial two months of the season, their offensive rating lingered at a modest 115.1 (12th in the league). Since January 1st, that number has skyrocketed to a league-best 119.8.
This isn't just a statistical bump; it's a testament to improved chemistry and execution. Coupled with a significant defensive improvement from 26th to 9th in defensive rating, the Hornets have boasted the third-best net rating in the NBA. This collective brilliance culminated in a franchise-tying nine-game winning streak from January 22nd to February 7th, their longest since 1999.
Unstoppable on the Road
The road used to be a daunting challenge for the Hornets, marked by a discouraging 4-12 record by the end of December. However, the new year brought a seismic shift in their away-game fortunes. Charlotte transformed into true road warriors, compiling an impressive 8-3 record on opponent courts in January alone.
This phenomenal run included dominant double-digit victories against formidable teams like Oklahoma City, Utah, Denver, Orlando, and the Los Angeles Lakers. Their January road performance also set an NBA record for the best road point differential in a single month (+151). They haven't lost away from home since January 17th, extending an incredible seven-game road winning streak, a feat not achieved since 1998.
Reigning Supreme on the Boards
Controlling the paint has become a hallmark of the Hornets' resurgence. While they've been solid rebounders all season, their performance on the glass has reached elite levels since January 1st. Charlotte now ranks second in offensive rebounding percentage (37.6%), first in defensive rebounding percentage (73.7%), and first in total rebounding percentage (55.8%).
These aren't just empty stats; they translate directly into crucial second-chance points and limit opponents' extra possessions. The Hornets rank second in the league for second-chance points (18.9) while also effectively shutting down opponents, allowing a mere 12.5 opponent second-chance points. This dominance provides a consistent edge in high-stakes games.
A Young Core Finds Its Roar
The health and synergy of Charlotte's dynamic young core have been instrumental in their dramatic turnaround. After an injury-plagued 2024-25 season, Brandon Miller, the 2023 No. 2 overall pick, is back and thriving. His consistent presence alongside LaMelo Ball (24), Moussa Diabaté (24), Miles Bridges (27), and the electrifying rookie Kon Knueppel (20) has unlocked new levels of performance.
The five-man lineup featuring Ball, Bridges, Diabaté, Knueppel, and Miller has been nothing short of spectacular. Across 17 games and 195 minutes together since January, this unit boasts an astonishing 136.4 offensive rating and an incredible 25.8 net rating. This isn't merely a collection of talent; it's a unit that has unlocked a terrifying synergy, proving they are the future of Charlotte basketball.
Kon Knueppel: Rookie Sensation
The arrival of Kon Knueppel, the 2025 No. 4 overall selection from Duke, has been a game-changer for the Hornets. Far more than just a 3-point marksman, Knueppel has emerged as an incredible all-around player in his first professional season under Coach Charles Lee. He's currently averaging an impressive 19.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 32.1 minutes per game.
Knueppel's efficiency is stellar, boasting remarkable shooting splits of 48.7% from the field, 43.5% from three, and 89.1% from the free-throw line. He leads the entire league with 198 made 3-pointers and has already set a new NBA rookie record with 17 games featuring five or more made 3s. With 24 games remaining, he's just nine treys away from breaking Keegan Murray's rookie record of 206. His dominant play places him second on the Kia Rookie Ladder, making him a serious contender for Rookie of the Year honors, potentially over former college teammate Cooper Flagg.
