Charles Lee Benches Naz Reid at Halftime in Hornets Loss

Reid Pulled Early in Detroit

Charles Lee made a bold statement on Wednesday in Detroit. The Charlotte Hornets head coach chose to sit Naz Reid for the entire second half of a 97-89 loss against the Detroit Pistons.

Lee did not hide the reason behind his choice. After the game, the coach explained that the recently acquired forward simply did not meet the standards of the team during the first half.

Reid was part of the starting lineup but played just 13 minutes on the court. He scored seven points on 2 of 6 shooting before Lee made the change. Lee said that Reid failed to reach their standards early, but added that he looks forward to seeing Reid meet them in the upcoming matchup.

Hornets Slide After the Break

Charlotte had control early in the game. The Hornets walked into halftime holding a 51-44 lead, supported by a 6-0 advantage in second chance points.

Brandon Miller led the way for Charlotte in the opening half, scoring 21 points. He finished the game with 31 points and 12 rebounds. However, Detroit turned the tide right after the break. The Pistons kicked off the third quarter with a 16 to 5 scoring run. Detroit forced eight Charlotte turnovers in that quarter and took a 76-70 lead.

Charlotte remained close throughout much of the fourth quarter, but could not complete the comeback. Miller struggled late, missing five of his seven shots in the final period, while the Hornets gave up five more turnovers.

High Expectations for Reid

The Hornets have big expectations for Reid, who arrived as a major return in the trade that sent LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Along with Reid, Charlotte received an unprotected first round pick in 2033 and three second round picks for 2029, 2032, and 2033. The team also secured pick swaps in 2028, 2029, and 2030.

Reid, 26, is currently playing in the second year of a five year, $125 million contract originally signed with Minnesota. He also won the 2024 Sixth Man of the Year award. Lee made it clear that those credentials come with the demand to perform every time players take the floor.

What it means for the next game

Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards (NBA, Fri, 30 Oct): Washington Wizards win 49%, Charlotte Hornets win 51%; projected score Washington Wizards 118, Charlotte Hornets 116. Our safest pick: Wizards +6.5.

Philadelphia 76ers at Charlotte Hornets (NBA, Sat, 31 Oct): Charlotte Hornets win 51%, Philadelphia 76ers win 49%; projected score Charlotte Hornets 113, Philadelphia 76ers 111. Our safest pick: Hornets +6.5.