Head Coach James Borrego utilized just 11 players in Thursday night’s win over Orlando, with three starters playing 28 minutes and three reserves notching at least 20. It’s a bit abnormal to have this tight a rotation in a preseason game, but the accelerated offseason and fewer exhibition contests makes this move a necessity from a familiarity and conditioning standpoint. It appears the Hornets have narrowed down their Opening Night rotation, although playing groups and lineup experimentation will be ongoing well into the regular season.
Hornets Tighten Up Turnover Issues
The Hornets committed 48 combined turnovers over their first two preseason games against the Raptors before breaking through on the ball security front with just 11 giveaways on Thursday night.