The Charlotte Hornets will be without rising star Brandon Miller for the foreseeable future after the guard underwent surgery Wednesday to address left shoulder instability. The team announced that while Miller is out indefinitely, he is expected to make a full recovery, with further updates to come as his rehabilitation progresses.
This isn't the first time the shoulder has been a concern for the second-year player. Miller missed 13 consecutive games starting in late October after suffering a left shoulder subluxation injury. Despite the setback, he bravely played through the remainder of the season with a protective wrap on the shoulder, showing the grit and determination that has made him a fan favorite in Charlotte.
Remarkably, the injury didn't slow Miller down on the court. In 65 games, he led the Hornets with an impressive average of 20.2 points per game, while also contributing 4.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.0 steals in 30.3 minutes per contest. His shooting efficiency took a significant leap, as he connected on a career-best 38.3% from beyond the arc, draining 204 three-pointers on the season. Miller also showcased his reliability at the free-throw line, ranking ninth in the NBA by hitting 89.2% of his attempts.
Drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in 2023, Miller has quickly established himself as a cornerstone for the Hornets' future. For fans and players alike, this surgery is a precautionary step to ensure he returns stronger than ever. While his absence will be felt on the court, the team is prioritizing his long-term health over short-term gains. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on his recovery, with hopes that he'll be back to his dynamic best when the next tip-off arrives.
