Charlotte Hornets guard Brandon Miller, who is the team’s second-leading scorer, will be out indefinitely due to a torn ligament in his right wrist.
Miller, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, was unable to play in Charlotte’s 125-123 win against Chicago on Friday night. The team first labeled it as a “wrist sprain,” but later revealed that Miller has a torn ligament in his wrist.
The injury occurred during the Hornets’ victory over Utah on Wednesday night, and Miller underwent an MRI to assess the damage. The team has said it will provide more updates about his condition when necessary.
“It’s one of those bittersweet things where you’re happy for the victory, but unfortunate news on Brandon,” said Hornets coach Charles Lee. “I think we’ll continue to evaluate where he is and do as much testing as we can. We’ll just kind of have to band together and help him through his rehab.”
The 22-year-old Miller, who played one season at Alabama before turning professional, is averaging 21 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 34.2 minutes per game in 27 games this season. He was also a finalist for Rookie of the Year last season, finishing third in the voting.
“That definitely hurts,” said teammate LaMelo Ball. “I was in the same kind of situation my rookie year or sophomore year or whatever. He’s with the whole squad, so that will help a little. I remember my situation, just being around with the guys. It’s tough times though.”