Brandon Miller Scores Career-High 39 as Wizards Fall 110-103 to Hornets Despite Anthony Davis Double-Double
By Brian Hradsky
October 27, 2026
The Washington Wizards fell 110-103 to the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night at Spectrum Center, ending their two-game winning streak despite a strong performance from Anthony Davis. Charlotte forward Brandon Miller delivered a career-high 39 points, including five three-pointers, while Naz Reid added 18 points and 12 rebounds to help the Hornets secure their third victory of the season. Davis led Washington with 29 points and 10 rebounds, Trae Young contributed 22 points and 10 assists, and Kyshawn George finished with 20 points. The defeat dropped the Wizards to 2-2 overall, while Charlotte improved to 3-1.
Wizards Start Strong but Struggle to Maintain Momentum
Washington entered Monday’s matchup looking to build on Saturday’s 124-120 victory over the Chicago Bulls. The Wizards had demonstrated impressive offensive potential through their opening three games, including victories over Milwaukee and Chicago. Davis and Young continued developing their chemistry, while George emerged as another dependable scoring contributor. However, Charlotte presented a difficult challenge with its combination of perimeter shooting and aggressive rebounding.
The Wizards established a narrow advantage during the opening quarter, outscoring Charlotte 21-19. Washington’s defensive effort helped limit the Hornets to 19 points, providing an encouraging start after several inconsistent performances during the opening week. Davis contributed around the basket, while Young directed the offense and created opportunities for his teammates. The Wizards entered the second quarter with a two-point lead.
Washington needed to maintain its defensive intensity to prevent Charlotte from establishing offensive momentum. However, the Hornets responded with a significantly stronger second-quarter performance, led by Miller’s aggressive scoring. Charlotte began generating opportunities through perimeter shooting and second-chance possessions. The shift in momentum forced Washington to spend much of the remainder of the contest attempting to recover.
Charlotte Takes Control During Second Quarter
The Hornets outscored Washington 35-23 during the second quarter, turning their two-point deficit into a 54-44 halftime advantage. Miller emerged as Charlotte’s primary offensive weapon, challenging Washington’s perimeter defenders and creating scoring opportunities from multiple positions. His combination of shooting and athleticism made it difficult for the Wizards to establish consistent defensive coverage. Charlotte also benefited from its ability to extend possessions through offensive rebounds.
Washington struggled to match Charlotte’s offensive production during the period. Although Davis and Young continued contributing, the Wizards could not generate enough defensive stops to prevent the Hornets from building their advantage. The team’s inability to control the defensive glass created additional opportunities for Charlotte. Washington entered halftime trailing by 10 points.
The second-quarter performance demonstrated how quickly an opponent can establish momentum when Washington struggles with defensive execution. Charlotte generated 35 points during the period, placing the Wizards under pressure heading into the second half. Washington needed to improve its rebounding and perimeter defense to prevent the deficit from growing. However, Miller continued producing during the third quarter.
Miller Delivers Career-Best Performance
Miller was the game’s most dominant offensive player, finishing with a career-high 39 points on 15-of-28 shooting. He connected on five of 10 three-point attempts and converted four free throws, surpassing his previous career high of 38 points. The fourth-year forward also contributed six rebounds, three steals and two blocked shots. His performance provided Charlotte with the scoring production necessary to overcome Washington.
Miller scored 27 points during the second and third quarters, helping the Hornets establish control after a competitive opening period. His ability to score from beyond the arc and attack the basket created significant defensive challenges for Washington. The Wizards attempted to contain him with multiple defenders, but Miller repeatedly found opportunities to generate points. His offensive efficiency became the defining individual performance of the evening.
The 39-point effort continued an encouraging stretch for Miller, who has now scored at least 30 points in consecutive games. His performance came shortly after he signed a five-year, $209 million contract extension with Charlotte. The Hornets have placed considerable confidence in his ability to become one of the franchise’s leading players. Monday’s performance demonstrated his potential to carry the offense during important games.
Washington Trails by 12 Entering Fourth Quarter
Charlotte maintained its advantage during the third quarter, outscoring Washington 26-24. Miller continued generating offensive opportunities while Reid and Moussa Diabate helped the Hornets control the rebounding battle. The Wizards received important contributions from Davis, Young and George but struggled to reduce the deficit significantly. Charlotte entered the final period holding an 80-68 advantage.
Washington faced another substantial deficit after previously demonstrating its ability to rally during victories over Milwaukee and Chicago. The Wizards needed stronger perimeter shooting and improved defensive execution to create another comeback opportunity. Young continued organizing the offense while Davis provided important scoring near the basket. However, Charlotte maintained control during the opening portion of the fourth quarter.
The Hornets eventually established a 98-84 advantage with 5:15 remaining, appearing positioned to secure a comfortable victory. Washington had struggled to contain Miller and prevent second-chance opportunities throughout the contest. The 14-point deficit created a difficult challenge with limited time remaining. However, the Wizards responded with their strongest offensive stretch of the second half.
Wizards Rally Behind Late Three-Point Shooting
Washington mounted an impressive comeback during the final five minutes, connecting on five three-pointers to reduce Charlotte’s advantage. The Wizards increased their offensive urgency and began generating opportunities from beyond the arc. Davis, Young and George continued leading the attack as Washington attempted to erase the deficit. The late scoring run brought the Wizards within striking distance.
Washington eventually reduced Charlotte’s lead to 103-100 with 1:13 remaining, creating an opportunity to complete another dramatic comeback. The Wizards had transformed a seemingly comfortable Hornets advantage into a one-possession contest. Charlotte suddenly faced significant pressure after controlling much of the second half. However, Miller responded with another important offensive contribution.
Miller connected on a jumper to extend Charlotte’s lead to five points before adding a free throw that made the score 106-100 with 38.3 seconds remaining. The baskets helped stabilize the Hornets after Washington’s late rally. Charlotte maintained its advantage during the closing possessions and secured the 110-103 victory. The Wizards outscored the Hornets 35-30 during the fourth quarter but could not overcome the earlier deficit.
Davis Records 29 Points and 10 Rebounds
Davis delivered one of his strongest performances since joining Washington, finishing with 29 points and 10 rebounds. The veteran connected on 11 of 22 field-goal attempts, including three of six from beyond the arc, while converting all four free throws. His production helped the Wizards remain competitive despite Charlotte’s offensive advantage. Davis also committed no turnovers during his 36 minutes.
The performance represented an encouraging response after Davis scored 19 points against Chicago and nine against Toronto. He opened the season with 34 points against Milwaukee, demonstrating his ability to dominate when Washington successfully establishes its offensive rhythm. Against Charlotte, Davis again provided dependable scoring and rebounding production. However, his individual performance was not enough to overcome the Hornets’ advantage on the glass.
Davis’ 10 rebounds were important, but Washington struggled to control Charlotte’s frontcourt throughout the evening. Reid and Diabate combined for 29 rebounds, creating additional scoring opportunities for the Hornets. The Wizards needed greater collective effort from their guards and forwards to prevent those second chances. Improving defensive rebounding will remain an important priority.
Young Records Another Double-Double
Young continued his productive start to the season with 22 points and 10 assists against Charlotte. The veteran guard connected on 10 of 20 field-goal attempts while collecting six rebounds and committing only two turnovers. His ability to create opportunities helped Washington generate offense despite facing a difficult defensive opponent. Young also played 38 minutes, demonstrating his importance to the team’s rotation.
The performance represented Young’s third points-and-assists double-double in Washington’s first four games. He previously recorded 20 points and 13 assists against Milwaukee and 22 points and 12 assists against Toronto before finishing with 25 points and nine assists against Chicago. His consistency has become one of the Wizards’ most encouraging early-season developments. Washington continues relying on his scoring and playmaking to organize its offense.
Young’s decision-making was particularly encouraging because Washington had experienced turnover problems during its earlier loss to Toronto. Against Charlotte, he committed only two turnovers while distributing 10 assists. His ability to maintain offensive production without excessive mistakes provides an important foundation. However, Washington needs stronger defensive execution to capitalize on those contributions.
George Continues Encouraging Development
George delivered another productive performance, finishing with 20 points on 8-of-14 shooting. The young forward connected on both of his three-point attempts and converted two free throws. He also contributed four rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot. His scoring provided Washington with a third player reaching at least 20 points.
The performance followed George’s 22-point, nine-rebound effort against Chicago, demonstrating his ability to produce consistently during the opening week. Washington has benefited from his increased offensive confidence and willingness to attack favorable matchups. His shooting efficiency against Charlotte was particularly encouraging because the Wizards struggled with perimeter consistency throughout much of the contest. George continues emerging as an important part of the team’s rotation.
However, George also committed four turnovers and five personal fouls, demonstrating areas requiring improvement. The Wizards need him to remain aggressive without placing himself in difficult situations through unnecessary mistakes. His defensive versatility and offensive development remain valuable assets. Continued progress could help Washington establish a more balanced lineup around Young and Davis.
Hornets Dominate Offensive Rebounding
Charlotte’s advantage on the glass was one of the biggest differences between the teams. The Hornets collected 20 offensive rebounds compared with 10 for Washington, creating numerous additional scoring opportunities. Charlotte also finished with 54 individual rebounds compared with 41 for the Wizards, according to the official box score. The disparity helped offset Washington’s slightly better overall field-goal shooting percentage.
Diabate delivered an outstanding rebounding performance, finishing with 17 boards, including 11 offensive rebounds. His activity around the basket repeatedly extended Charlotte’s possessions and prevented Washington from completing defensive stops. Diabate also scored 11 points and recorded three blocks, providing valuable contributions beyond rebounding. His performance demonstrated the importance of physicality and effort near the basket.
Reid added 18 points and 12 rebounds, giving Charlotte another productive frontcourt contributor. The veteran shot 8-of-22 from the field and connected on two three-pointers while helping the Hornets maintain their rebounding advantage. His versatility created additional challenges for Washington’s defense. Charlotte benefited from having multiple players capable of generating offense and controlling the glass.
Grayson Allen Provides Important Bench Scoring
Grayson Allen contributed 15 points off Charlotte’s bench, providing an important scoring option behind Miller and Reid. Allen connected on two three-pointers and converted all seven of his free-throw attempts. His production helped Charlotte maintain offensive balance during periods when its starters rested. The Hornets benefited from his experience and ability to generate points efficiently.
Charlotte has been managing several injuries during the opening week, including absences involving Coby White, Kon Knueppel and Grant Williams. Those injuries have increased the importance of contributions from available players. Allen’s 15-point performance demonstrated the value of having an experienced scorer capable of supporting the starting lineup. The Hornets have continued winning despite those personnel challenges.
Charlotte’s bench also received six points from Ryan Kalkbrenner and five from Tidjane Salaun. Although Miller provided the largest share of the scoring, the Hornets received contributions from several different players. Their ability to maintain offensive production throughout the rotation helped protect the lead. Washington struggled to match that balance from its reserves.
Justin Champagnie Leaves With Foot Injury
Washington suffered another setback when forward Justin Champagnie injured his right foot during the first quarter. Champagnie did not return to the contest, leaving the Wizards without one of their important reserve contributors. The injury reduced Washington’s available depth and created additional challenges for the coaching staff. His status for the upcoming matchup against Cleveland will require further evaluation.
Champagnie had provided valuable contributions during Washington’s opening victory over Milwaukee, finishing with eight points and eight rebounds. His activity on the glass and defensive effort helped the Wizards complete a fourth-quarter comeback in that contest. Losing his presence against Charlotte was particularly unfortunate because Washington struggled to control the rebounding battle. The team will need other players to contribute if he misses additional games.
Washington also remained without rookie AJ Dybantsa, who has yet to make his regular-season debut because of a left ankle sprain. The first overall selection in the 2026 NBA Draft continues recovering from the injury. His absence limits Washington’s offensive depth while the team attempts to establish consistency. The Wizards will need to rely on their available personnel until injured players return.
Washington’s Bench Struggles to Produce
The Wizards received limited scoring from their reserves, creating additional pressure on Davis, Young and George. Bub Carrington contributed six points, while Tre Johnson finished with seven. Justin Champagnie added two points before leaving with his injury, and Will Riley scored two. The remaining reserves did not provide significant scoring production.
Washington’s three leading scorers combined for 71 of the team’s 103 points, accounting for nearly 69% of its offense. The concentration demonstrated the importance of Davis, Young and George but also highlighted the need for additional contributors. Charlotte received important bench production from Allen and several other players. Washington struggled to maintain the same scoring balance.
Johnson’s seven-point performance was particularly disappointing after he previously scored 20 against Toronto. The young guard connected on only one of six three-point attempts against Charlotte, limiting his offensive impact. Washington needs more consistent perimeter shooting from its reserves to support the starting lineup. Improved bench production could help prevent extended scoring droughts.
Wizards Prepare for Cleveland Road Matchup
Washington will continue its road trip Wednesday, October 28, against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern, providing the Wizards with an opportunity to respond after Monday’s defeat. Cleveland presents another challenging Eastern Conference opponent with established offensive and defensive talent. Washington will need a more complete performance to secure another road victory.
The Wizards will also host Charlotte on Friday, October 30, at Capital One Arena. The quick rematch provides an opportunity to address the problems that contributed to Monday’s defeat. Washington must improve its rebounding and defensive coverage against Miller while maintaining its offensive production. The coaching staff will have several days to evaluate adjustments.
Washington’s 2-2 start demonstrates both the potential and inconsistency of its restructured roster. The team has already defeated Milwaukee and Chicago but suffered losses to Toronto and Charlotte. Davis and Young have provided important production, while George continues developing as another scoring option. However, defensive rebounding and consistent contributions throughout the rotation remain significant challenges.
MSB Take
Washington’s 110-103 loss to Charlotte was frustrating because the Wizards received strong performances from Davis, Young and George but could not overcome their defensive rebounding problems. Miller deserves recognition for his career-high 39 points, but the Hornets’ 20 offensive rebounds were equally important to the outcome. Diabate’s 11 offensive boards repeatedly extended Charlotte’s possessions and prevented Washington from establishing sustained momentum. The Wizards cannot expect to win consistently when opponents receive that many second-chance opportunities.
Davis’ 29-point, 10-rebound performance was encouraging, particularly after his inconsistent scoring during the opening three games. Young continued providing dependable playmaking with 22 points and 10 assists, while George delivered another efficient scoring performance. However, Washington received limited production from its reserves and struggled to contain Charlotte’s offensive attack during the middle quarters. The team needs stronger contributions beyond its leading scorers.
The biggest priority moving forward should be improving defensive rebounding and preventing opponents from establishing extended scoring runs. Washington demonstrated resilience by reducing a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to three, but the comeback began too late to overcome Charlotte’s advantage. The Wizards must establish more consistent defensive execution throughout complete games rather than relying on late rallies. Wednesday’s matchup against Cleveland will provide another opportunity to demonstrate progress before the rematch with Charlotte on Friday.
