Hornets’ Miles Bridges Makes Comeback After 10 Game Absence

Miles Bridges Returns to Lift Struggling Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets received a major boost on Friday with the return of Miles Bridges, who made his comeback against the Chicago Bulls after missing 10 games due to a bruised right knee. Bridges had not played since November 19, when the Hornets lost to the Brooklyn Nets. Before his injury, he had been averaging 16 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, making his absence significantly felt.

The Hornets had been struggling, losing 12 of their last 15 games, and their frontcourt depth was severely limited without Bridges. The team had dropped eight consecutive games before snapping the streak with a win over the Indiana Pacers. However, their overall performance remained inconsistent. With Bridges back in action, the Hornets are hopeful that they can regain some stability.

Rookie forward Tidjane Salaun was also cleared to play after missing the previous two games due to a sprained left ankle. Salaun’s return adds more depth and versatility to the frontcourt. Drafted as the sixth overall pick, Salaun has the potential to be a key player for the Hornets in the long run.

Coach Charles Lee expressed optimism about the returns of both players, noting that they bring more depth and versatility to the team. “There haven’t been any excuses made, and there’s just been an overall competitiveness,” Lee said. “The one thing we gain from those two is more competitiveness. Offensively, they help us create better shot opportunities because of their ability to get into the paint.”

Bridges’ return is significant for the Hornets, who have been struggling to find offensive consistency. His ability to create scoring opportunities, both for himself and his teammates, adds a much-needed dimension to Charlotte’s attack. His presence in the paint will also help the Hornets generate better offensive looks, something they have lacked in recent games.

For Charlotte, Bridges’ impact extends beyond just scoring. His defensive abilities and physicality will be crucial in helping the Hornets compete against stronger opponents. Bridges can provide a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor, making him an essential part of the team’s plans moving forward.

The Hornets have relied heavily on LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward in Bridges’ absence, but the team has lacked a consistent third option. With Bridges back, Charlotte now has more firepower and a better chance to balance their offensive load. His ability to attack the basket and space the floor with his shooting makes him a key asset in improving the team’s overall play.

As for Tidjane Salaun, while still adjusting to the NBA, his return offers more support in the frontcourt. His size and skills provide the Hornets with additional flexibility in their rotations, allowing the team to adapt to different matchups and improve overall depth.

In conclusion, the return of Miles Bridges marks a turning point for the struggling Hornets. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities will help address many of the team’s issues. With both Bridges and Salaun back in the fold, the Hornets now have the tools to turn their season around and build momentum moving forward.