Charlotte Heads to Milwaukee for First Game Post-Trade Deadline

No more PJ, nor Hayward. But perhaps the start of a new era.

Author:
Philip Trapp
Feb 9, 2024 10:04 AM EST

In this story:

Charlotte Hornets

Milwaukee Bucks

INJURY REPORT:

HORNETS: Out: LaMelo Ball (ankle), Mark Williams (back) Probable: Cody Martin (knee)

BUCKS: Out: Khris Middleton (ankle) Questionable: Damian Lillard (ankle)

GAME PREVIEW:

There's a new hope in the air for Hornets fans on Friday after a trade deadline Thursday that refreshed the Charlotte squad thoroughly — at least on paper. Gone are PJ Washington and Gordon Hayward — they were traded to Dallas and Oklahoma City, respectively. Ish Smith, James Bouknight, and Frank Ntilikina were all three waived. Incoming to the Charlotte Hornets are Grant Williams, Seth Curry, Tre Mann, Davis Bertans and Vasilije Micic. What a difference a day makes.

But what change will it make on the court tonight against the Milwaukee Bucks at their home in Fiserv Forum? The Bucks' Damian Lillard was out for the teams' last game, due to an ankle injury, but he is day-to-day — meaning he could play tonight. And the Hornets still have to line up and face aggressive Bucks players such as the impenetrable Giannis Antetokounmpo. Can star Hornets rookie Brandon Miller lead the way for his team tonight? Tune in to find out.

KEY MATCHUP: Miles Bridges vs Giannis Antetokounmpo

Speaking of Antetokounmpo, will the dominant "Greek Freak" power forward be covering Miles Bridges on the floor tonight? If so, we may see sparks between the two players. It's a bit hard to predict who Hornets head coach Steve Clifford will start with tonight, giving their shifting lineup over the last 24 hours.

Not to mention, there were four forwards on their floor to start Charlotte's last game. Regardless, it's sure to be a test for the "new" Charlotte Hornets. Especially after the Hornets are now 10-40 and have lost nine of their last 10 games. The Bucks are ranked third in the East. Overall, it's sure to be an exciting game.