Charlotte Hornets coach James Borrego is going back to small-ball with his starting lineup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and also more experienced.
Borrego said his starters Friday would be P.J. Washington at center, Miles Bridges at power forward, Cody Martin at small forward and Terry Rozier and Devonte Graham at the guard spots. That means rookie Vernon Carey is out as starting center and Jalen McDaniels goes to the second unit at small forward.
The Hornets have lost six of their last seven games entering this match-up with the Cavs. With LaMelo Ball, Gordon Hayward and Malik Monk still out with injuries, the Hornets have plummeted offensively.