Charlotte Hornets center PJ Hall is fully healthy and targeting an expanded role as the team opened its season with Media Day activities. Hall's recovery from a right ankle fracture that ended his first NBA campaign in February is complete, and he's ready to build on his promising 12-game stint. The Hornets enter the new season with momentum, coming off a 44-38 record last year, their best mark since 2021-22.
Hall spoke about the mental challenge of returning from his February ankle injury. He emphasized patience and focusing on incremental progress. "Mentally recovery is just take one day at a time," Hall said. "You can get caught up in trying to make big strides whenever you're actually making progress. You don't realize it." His goal for the upcoming year is clear. He wants to become a versatile, multi-positional defender and offensive threat, describing himself as a "Swiss Army knife" for the team.
The Spartanburg native and former Clemson star appeared in 12 games for Charlotte, averaging 6.1 points and 5.5 rebounds in 15.6 minutes per contest. He earned his NBA minutes after injuries decimated the Hornets' frontcourt. Hall signed a two-year, two-way contract after spending part of last season with the G League's Greensboro Swarm. His per-minute production showed potential, and the team is now counting on him to translate that into a consistent rotation spot.
Charlotte's roster has seen significant changes since last season, creating opportunities for players like Hall. The team's 44-38 finish was only its second 40-win season in the past decade, setting a new standard. Expectations are higher now. The Hornets will need contributions from across the roster to meet them, especially with several key players departing in the offseason.
The Hornets have shown strong form recently, winning three of their last five games. Their most recent result was a commanding 110-96 victory over the New York Knicks on April 12, 2026. Before that, they suffered a 100-118 loss to the Detroit Pistons. The team's recent run also includes a 122-108 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves and high-scoring victories against the Indiana Pacers (129-108) and Phoenix Suns (127-107). This recent form of 3 wins and 2 losses provides a solid foundation as they prepare for the new campaign.
