The tough setback confirmed for the Hornets at the start of the NBA

The 2025/26 season of the NBA is very close to beginning. But before that, the training camp will be held with the corresponding preseason games. For the Charlotte Hornets, however, those games will not be fully utilized as the absences of Grant Williams and Josh Green have been confirmed.

Grant Williams and Josh Green, pieces expected to be key players in the rotation, will remain out of action as they continue to recover from injuries sustained last season in the competition.

The franchise's coach, Charles Lee, confirmed that both players are progressing in their respective rehabilitations, although he avoided setting a specific date for their return.

“They are working very hard, consistently, and progressing in the process. Grant is a bit further along than Josh, but we don't want to rush them,” explained Lee.

Grant Williams, who arrived in Charlotte with the expectation of providing defensive solidity and experience in the paint, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his right knee in November 2024, an injury that forced him to miss almost the entire season.

On the other hand, Green underwent surgery last June after a left shoulder injury that limited him in the final stretch of the season. His versatility as a two-way forward and his ability to space the floor were key elements in Lee's plans for the 2025-26 season.

An Opportunity for the Youngsters

The simultaneous absence of both raises questions about the Hornets' depth. Charlotte has young talent that will need to step up. Among them, rookies Kon Knueppel, Liam McNeeley, and Sion James stand out, who will now have increased minutes at least during the preseason.

Additionally, the franchise welcomes back Brandon Miller, who missed last season due to a wrist injury. The number 2 pick of the 2023 Draft will have no restrictions in the training camp and is expected to be the offensive focal point of the team alongside LaMelo Ball.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El duro contratiempo confirmado para los Hornets en el inicio de NBA