The Hornets Are Quietly Becoming One of the NBA's Hottest Teams

Charlotte is 32-31 and has gone 16-3 since Jan. 22, ranking first in net rating and posting the league's top offense during that stretch.

Charlotte is 32-31 and above .500 for the first time since late October, and the team is on pace for its first winning season in four years. Since Jan. 22 the Hornets have gone 16-3 and, during that span, the offense has been the league's best while the team has a top net rating. Head coach Charles Lee has emphasized defense as a foundation, noting that early practices were focused on defensive work. The team has combined a younger roster with changes in coaching and front-office leadership to produce the recent improvement. Current details: - The Hornets are 32-31 and were above .500 for the first time since late October. - Since Jan. 22 the team has gone 16-3 and the offense ranked first during that stretch. - The Hornets held the top net rating in that period and were seventh on defense over the same run. - Charlotte entered a six-game winning streak in which each win was by at least 15 points. - Key young players noted in the article include LaMelo Ball (24), Brandon Miller (23), Kon Knueppel (20) and Moussa Diabaté (24); Charles Lee became head coach after Jeff Peterson was hired as head of basketball operations in 2024. Summary: Charlotte's recent run has moved the team into contention for a play-in or playoff spot as the regular season continues. The article attributes the improvement to defensive emphasis, a rising offense, and development from a young core; the club expects to keep building on those habits in the months ahead.