The Charlotte Hornets continued their strong start to the 2026-27 NBA season Monday night, defeating the Washington Wizards 110-103 at Spectrum Center. Brandon Miller delivered the best performance of his young career, scoring a career high 39 points to lead Charlotte to its third victory in four games.
Miller’s outstanding night helped the Hornets overcome a slow start and hold off a late Washington comeback. Charlotte improved to 3-1 on the season, showing resilience after suffering a disappointing 128-81 loss to the Atlanta Hawks earlier in the week.
Miller Delivers a Career Night
Miller was the clear star of the game, finishing with 39 points on 15-of-28 shooting from the field. He knocked down five three-pointers and added five rebounds, three steals and two blocks, making an impact on both ends of the floor.
After struggling with his shot during the opening games of the season, Miller has responded with consecutive performances of more than 30 points. He scored 34 against the Miami Heat on Saturday before taking his game to another level against Washington.
The fourth year guard’s offensive production was especially important with Charlotte missing several players, including Coby White, Kon Knueppel and Grant Williams.
Naz Reid also played a major role in the victory, recording 18 points and 12 rebounds. Moussa Diabate added 11 points and 17 rebounds, while Grayson Allen contributed 15 points off the bench.
Hornets Survive Late Wizards Rally
Charlotte overcame a sluggish opening quarter to establish control of the game. The Wizards held a 21-19 advantage after the first period, but the Hornets found their rhythm offensively and carried a 54-44 lead into halftime.
Charlotte continued to build its advantage throughout the second half, entering the fourth quarter ahead by 12 points. With just over five minutes remaining, the Hornets appeared comfortable with a 98-84 lead.
Washington refused to go away, however. Led by Anthony Davis and Trae Young, the Wizards mounted a late rally, cutting Charlotte’s advantage to 103-100 with 1:13 remaining.
Miller answered under pressure, hitting a jumper and converting a free throw to help the Hornets regain control. Charlotte’s rebounding advantage also proved crucial, as the team grabbed 20 offensive rebounds and finished with 54 total rebounds.
Looking Ahead
Davis led Washington with 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Young finished with 22 points and 10 assists. Kyshawn George added 20 points, but the Wizards couldn’t complete the comeback.
The Hornets will look to build on their momentum when they visit the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday. If Miller continues producing at this level and Charlotte maintains its effort on the boards, the team could become an increasingly difficult opponent early in the season.