3 Biggest Keys to Hornets Grabbing Win Over Clippers

The Charlotte Hornets have struggled early this season, with the team not playing up to expectations so far.

On the year, the Hornets are 4-8 currently, losing to the Phoenix Suns the last time out in what was a tough game. Charlotte is sitting in the No. 10 spot in the Eastern Conference, which isn't where the team wanted to be at this point.

The Hornets came into the season believing that they could make some noise, and the team did start the season off well. But injuries and inconsistent play have hurt this team, limiting what they can do.

Forward Kon Knueppel's injury specifically has hurt this team, forcing others to take on roles that they didn't expect to have. But there is still time for the Hornets to turn it around this year.

Next up for Charlotte is a matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, who have also struggled this season. The game will be played on Sunday, and it could give the Hornets a chance to get back on track.

Here are the three biggest keys for Charlotte to take down Los Angeles:

1. Coby White Runs the Offense

White was brought back this offseason to run the offense, and he has started ti slowly pick things up this season. Against Los Angeles, White will be tasked with controlling the pace of the game, and he will have to ensure that others are in the correct spots.

Charlotte can have a strong offensive attack, and White will have to play a big role in that during this game. The veteran may not have much help either, with Dennis Schroder missing games due to injury this year.

2. Can Brandon Miller Play?

Miller has missed the last few games for the Hornets due to injury, but this team needs him back on the floor. The forward is the best player that Charlotte has, and if the team is going to take down the Clippers, Miller could be a huge asset.

It remains to be seen if he can go, but if he can, it could provide the Hornets with a major boost. But if not, others are going to have to step up in his absenece.

3. Rim Protection

The Hornets have to be able to defend the rim, especially with how Los Angeles likes to attack. Center Moussa Diabaté will have a lot of pressure on him, but he's shown an ability to play well this year.

So far this season, Diabaté has averaged 0.9 blocks per game, giving the Hornets nice production. Ryan Kalkbrenner has also done well for Charlotte at defending the rim, averaging 1.2 blocks per game for this team.