Hornets Unable to Get Stops in 132-116 Loss to Wizards

The Washington Wizards took down the Hornets at Spectrum Center on Wednesday.

Once again without Terry Rozier, the Charlotte Hornets struggled in their home contest with the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. While they continued their dominance in the paint, the Hornets were unable to consistently stop Washington on defense. 

Going down by as many as twenty points in the first half, Charlotte clawed back to within eight points in the third quarter. But the Hornets' defense struggled to contain the Wizards and allowed them to shoot just under 49% from the floor. 

Kyle Kuzma made life difficult for Charlotte with his efficient shot-making to lead the Wizards with 33 points. The difference in this one was production from bench players. The Wizards' bench outscored the Hornets' bench 72 to 23. 

Best of the night:

LaMelo Ball continued his improved play despite the loss. After a slower start to the season than many were expecting, Ball has rounded into form. He led the Hornets in scoring with a season-high 34 points. LaMelo also poured in 7 assists and a steal while shooting 13-for-22 from the field. 

All five Hornets starters scored in double figures. 

Worst of the night:

The Hornets' bench was unable to find any scoring production with only 23 points, which ultimately doomed them. They were unable to fight their way back into the game in the second half due to a lack of scoring power outside of LaMelo Ball. 

Stat of the night:

LaMelo Ball's 34 points were the most he has scored in a regular season game since February 2, 2022 when he had 38 in Boston against the Celtics. 

Highlight of the night:

Two and a half minutes into the fourth quarter, LaMelo Ball whipped a pass inside to Brandon Miller who finished with the bucket and the foul. 

MELO DIME ALERT 👀 pic.twitter.com/TK4MtFS6m5

— Bally Sports: Hornets (@HornetsOnBally) November 9, 2023