New Charlotte Hornets forward Naz Reid has predicted a major breakout season for teammate Brandon Miller, comparing his potential trajectory to that of NBA superstar Anthony Edwards. Reid, acquired from the Minnesota Timberwolves this summer, shared his high expectations during a recent media session. The team's recent form shows promise, with three wins in their last five games, including a convincing 110-96 victory over the New York Knicks on April 12.
Reid drew a direct parallel between Miller's current stage and Anthony Edwards' development. "I was with Ant, and I started to see the shift he made going from his third year to his fourth," Reid said. "I think Brandon can do the same. This is his team, him and Kon (Knueppel), and I'm here to help in a big way." He specifically praised Miller's patience, consistency, and emerging leadership qualities, calling them "big in a younger guy." Miller is entering his fourth NBA season, which is the same point Edwards raised his game to an All-NBA level.
Miller's statistical profile supports the optimism. Last season, he averaged 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 38.3% from three-point range. For his career, he holds averages of 19.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. This season carries extra weight as it's his contract year, with insiders believing a strong performance could secure a new deal exceeding $200 million next summer.
The Hornets' roster has undergone significant change. The offseason trades of LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges have clearly shifted the franchise's cornerstone role to Brandon Miller. His usage rate is expected to skyrocket. Head coach Charles Lee is widely anticipated to start a lineup of Coby White, Miller, Kon Knueppel, Naz Reid, and Moussa Diabaté. That group represents a fresh identity for a team aiming to end a long playoff drought stretching back to 2016.
Coach Lee is equally enthusiastic about the addition of Reid, the former Sixth Man of the Year. "He's a joy to work with and to have on our team," Lee said. "The versatility of Naz has been displayed in so many different ways, defensively and offensively. The human being, he's phenomenal." Lee noted Reid's quick integration into the squad, emphasizing how the veteran's initiative in building relationships has smoothed the transition.
The Hornets have shown flashes of their potential in recent games. Their last five outings resulted in a 3-2 record (WLLWW). After a tough 118-100 loss to the Detroit Pistons on April 10, they bounced back strongly to beat the Knicks. That win followed earlier results including a 122-108 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 5 and a 129-108 win against the Indiana Pacers on April 3.
Looking ahead, the 2026-27 NBA schedule opens with a road game against the Brooklyn Nets before the home opener versus the Atlanta Hawks. The core mission is clear: guide the Hornets back to the postseason. The franchise never reached the playoffs with Ball and Bridges as the leading duo. Now, the spotlight is firmly on Miller and Knueppel to achieve what their predecessors could not. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming challenges on our schedule page.
All signs point to this being a defining campaign for Brandon Miller. With Reid's mentorship and Coach Lee's system, he has the support structure to make a star leap. The organization's faith is evident in their decision to build around him. On-court success will be the ultimate measure. The early-season schedule provides immediate tests, and Miller's response will set the tone. If his development mirrors that of Anthony Edwards, the Charlotte Hornets could finally have the franchise player they've been searching for, turning potential into consistent wins and a long-awaited playoff return.
