Brandon Miller is emerging as the player Charlotte trusts to deliver in decisive moments. He scored a career-high 39 points and hit the game-clinching basket against Washington, while teammates and coach Charles Lee made clear they want the ball in his hands when a game is on the line.

By the Numbers
  • Miller scored 39 points, a career high.
  • Charlotte improved to 3-1, despite missing Coby White, Kon Knueppel and Grant Williams.
  • Miller signed a five-year, $209 million extension.
  • He purchased 500 tickets for breast cancer survivors.
Yes, But

Charlotte’s confidence in Miller goes beyond scoring: he also had two steals and two blocks, including a chase-down rejection. The Hornets are still building consistency, but his teammates say they’ll stand by him whether his shot goes in or not.

State of Play
  • With LaMelo Ball in Minnesota and Miles Bridges in Phoenix, Miller is Charlotte’s longest-tenured player.
  • Coach Charles Lee and forward Moussa Diabate have publicly endorsed Miller as the team’s go-to option.
Bottom Line

Charlotte has more than invested in Miller financially: it is asking him to lead, and his teammates are ready to follow.