The Charlotte Hornets got into the win column for the first time during the 2026-27 season, winning their second preseason matchup of the summer, this one against the Milwaukee Bucks. After losing their first contest to the Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte came out much stronger Sunday night, powered by star forward Brandon Miller, who returned from a shin injury.
Miller led the Hornets in scoring with 18, while recent trade acquisition Naz Reid chipped in 16 points on 50% shooting from the field. Liam McNeeley scored in double-digits for the second consecutive game, while another second-year guard, Sion James, shot 50% or better from 3-point range for the second contest in a row.
Following Charlotte's first preseason win, here are three things to take
note of with regular season action right around the corner.
3. Hannes Steinbach needs time to develop on the offensive end
During Charlotte's matchup against the Nets, recent No. 14 overall pick Hannes Steinbach didn't enter the game until late in the third quarter. That all changed Sunday, as Steinbach came off the bench as soon as the first quarter. Although the German-born big man is a phenomenal rebounder, fans will need to be patient as it pertains to his offensive development. Sunday, Steinbach finished with eight points, five rebounds and one assist on 4-for-10 shooting. That said, the Washington product struggled against top-tier NBA talent, as he was rejected by Myles Turner at the rim on multiple occasions. Similar to Ryan Kalkbrenner during his rookie season, Steinbach may start his NBA career as a put-back finisher instead of a post scorer.
2. Sion James is a capable point guard
Throughout the Hornets' first two preseason games, Sion James has arguably been the most impressive player. At times last season, James seemed uneasy in possession and struggled mightily from the floor, converting on just 37.1% of field goals. Thus far, James looks like a completely different player. The Duke alum appears to be more confident driving the ball, a much-improved ball handler and an exceptional 3-point shooter. Although it's a small sample size, James has been great from long distance, converting on 5-of-8 3-point attempts. If this continues, James is likely to bring up the ball for Charlotte's second unit at times, especially if Coby White or Dennis Schroder is on the bench.
1. Charlotte's playmaking is in good shape
Questions surrounded Charlotte's playmaking after LaMelo Ball, Charlotte's assists leader last season, was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. While Ball's production will be difficult to replicate, the Hornets appear ready to do so by committee. During Sunday's victory against Milwaukee, ball movement was plentiful, as the Hornets racked up 29 assists on 39 total made field goals. Dennis Schroder, Liam McNeeley, Brandon Miller, Sion James and Michael Ajayi all finished with three assists or more. Schroder was especially effective in penetrating the paint, dishing to cutters and big men for easy finishes around the rim. Considering the Hornets have yet to see Coby White, Christian Anderson Jr. and Kon Knueppel, Charlotte appears to have plenty more potential in this area as well.
For more NBA content, check out the BasketBaltes podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/@BasketBaltes
https://www.instagram.com/basketbaltes/
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: 3 things from Charlotte's preseason victory against Milwaukee
