Just In: Charlotte Hornets Release Starting Five for Preseason Opener

A look at the first five on the floor.

The Charlotte Hornets are officially back as they tip off preseason play tonight against the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center. 

Moments ago, the Hornets announced the starting lineup for tonight's game.

G LaMelo Ball

Ball makes his return to the court tonight after not having played in a game since last February when he suffered another injury to his ankle that kept him out for the remainder of the season. He will be wearing ankle braces from here on out in an effort to prevent more issues with his ankles.

G Terry Rozier

Head coach Steve Clifford praises Terry every chance he gets for the amount of work he put in this offseason. He's one of the leaders of this team and will now get to settle back into his natural position off the ball with LaMelo back in the lineup.

F Gordon Hayward

Hayward has dealt with the injury bug for much of his time in Buzz City, but this offseason was his first in Charlotte where he didn't have to rehab an injury. Clifford has been very high on him as well and sees improvements in his game.

F P.J. Washington

It took a while, but Washington and the Hornets got a deal done this summer that will keep the two together for the next three years. Washington is a versatile defender who can stretch the floor on the offensive end. It'll be interesting to see if he returns to a role off the bench when Miles Bridges returns from his suspension.

C Mark Willams

Williams had an impressive rookie campaign once he was plugged into the starting lineup on a regular basis. The Hornets' defense improved dramatically, particularly in the paint. He's now the guy on the inside.

The Hornets and Heat will begin action at 7:30 p.m. on Bally Sports Southeast.

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