Brandon Miller is not ready for opening night, and the Charlotte Hornets must find a new starter fast. The former No. 2 pick had shoulder surgery on May 6 to fix a dislocation that sidelined him for 13 games last season. While Miller hopes to be back for training camp on September 29, his timeline remains unclear. This leaves a massive gap in the starting lineup that needs filling right now.
The Best Defensive Option
Grayson Allen has great shooting skills, but he cannot guard the opponent’s best player like Miller can. Royce O’Neale is a veteran, yet his defensive impact slips as he gets older. The only real choice to keep the starting five competitive on defense is Sion James. He started games for Charlotte last year and proved he could handle the load. According to reports, James stands out as the top defender among the group and is the obvious choice to fill in for Miller should he be unavailable.
James knows how to lock up stars. He does not need to create offense like Miller does. The Hornets have plenty of other scorers to handle the ball. Coby White, Kon Knueppel, and Naz Reid can bend defenses with their shooting and passing. They will carry the offensive weight while James focuses on stopping the other team. This setup allows James to be a true connective piece without worrying about scoring.
Miller’s Recovery Update
Brandon Miller is working hard to get back on the floor. He spoke to The Charlotte Observer about his surgery and recovery process. “It was good, it was a short surgery,” Miller said. He noted that his rehabilitation is progressing well, yet he remains uncertain about the date the Hornets will authorize his return to full basketball activities. “I’m getting stronger. That’s all I can ask for.” As my strength increases, my shoulder mobility improves, which is the most crucial factor.
The team needs him back, but they cannot wait around if he is not ready. The Hornets traded LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges to build a new core around Miller and Knueppel. They added veterans like Dennis Schroder and Dorian Finney-Smith to help. A strong preseason showing from James could open the door for him to stay in the rotation longer. Liam McNeeley is another option, but he still has to prove himself before earning a starting spot.
The Path Forward
The Hornets look like a legitimate playoff contender if they get their offense flowing. When 2026 began, they ranked among the finest squads in the NBA. Now they must adjust to a new starting lineup without their star. James offers the stability needed on the defensive end. He is the best bet to keep the team competitive while Miller heals. The offense will remain strong with White, Knueppel, and Reid leading the way.
James is the answer for now. He fits the defensive need perfectly. The Hornets will open training camp with a bunch of new faces. This is a fresh start for the franchise. If James can hold the line on defense, the team will be ready to win games even without Miller on day one.
