Is Brandon Miller on a Legitimate Superstar Path?

The Charlotte Hornets' rising star is making a strong case to be considered among the NBA's elite.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Nearly two months ago, the conversation surrounding Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller was very different. After returning from an early-season injury, he struggled through his first 10 games back. However, Miller has since turned things around, leading the Hornets' resurgence as one of the league's most potent offenses. With Charlotte operating like one of the best teams in the NBA, Miller has emerged as a leading scorer and playmaker, sparking discussions about his potential to become a legitimate superstar in the coming years.

Why it matters

Miller's rapid development and the Hornets' success have captured the attention of the NBA world. If Charlotte continues to field one of the league's top offenses and Miller keeps improving, he could soon be making All-Star teams and establishing himself as a superstar-level player. This would be a significant milestone for the 23-year-old forward and the Hornets franchise.

The details

Since the start of the new year, the Hornets have owned a top-two net rating in the NBA, trailing only the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons. They also rank top-two in offensive rating over that stretch, scoring a historic 130.2 points per 100 possessions with Miller, LaMelo Ball, and Kon Knueppel on the floor. Miller has been the head of the snake, averaging 21.5 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.3 rebounds during this stretch. The Hornets' egalitarian offensive system has allowed Miller to thrive, showcasing his playmaking abilities and improved defense.

  • In mid-December, Miller struggled through his first 10 games back from a left shoulder subluxation, shooting 36.4% from the field and 30.9% from three.
  • Since the start of the new year, the Hornets have owned a top-two net rating in the NBA and a top-two offensive rating.

The players

Brandon Miller

A 23-year-old forward for the Charlotte Hornets who has emerged as a leading scorer and playmaker for the team during their recent resurgence.

LaMelo Ball

The star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, who has been an essential reason for the team's turnaround this season.

Kon Knueppel

A key player for the Charlotte Hornets, who has contributed to the team's historic offensive production alongside Miller and Ball.

Charles Lee

The head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, whose system has helped maximize Miller's abilities and the team's overall offensive performance.

Paul George

An NBA star whom Miller has been compared to and who the young forward looks up to as a role model.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.