Hornets' Surprise Season: Coach of the Year Contender

On April 2nd, the Charlotte Hornets just crushed the Brooklyn Nets 117-86 on the road, pushing

their season win total to 40.

That's more than double their 19 wins from last year, making this already a smashed

success even if they drop every game left, heading in, everyone doubted if Lamello

Ball could stay healthy for 50 plus games, or if the rookies would matter in the plan

push.

Turns out, those worries vanished.

Ball has been available, hitting the 65 game mark for award eligibility, and the young

guns have stepped up.

Big time.

Fans were stunned by the surprise squad, drawing parallels to the Thunder and Pistons

breakouts.

Early on, after a 4 and 14 start, calls to fire coach Charles Lee were loud, but now he's

got a real shot at coach of the year with a total.

Culture flip.

Key moves sealed it.

Brandon Miller grinding through a shoulder issue as top score, returns from Grant Williams

and Josh Greene for a full rotation.

Plus, the Kobe White trade.

Rookie con, New Apple shattered 3 point records, leading all first year guys in, makes with

sharp efficiency.

Since the All-Star break, their defense ranks 6 league wide, with fears on ball pressure.

This young corps building serious momentum, setting up sky high hopes for next year, just

like the trades jump from 14 wins to East's top seed.

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