Charlotte Hornets Drop Summer League Opener to New Orleans

Hornets Struggled with 22 Turnovers

Charlotte entered the 2026 NBA Summer League with high expectations after a victory over Orlando, but the Hornets’ first loss came at the hands of New Orleans on Saturday night. The decisive factor was a turnover avalanche—22 mistakes by Charlotte contrasted sharply with just seven for the Pelicans. The disparity in ball security proved costly, as each New Orleans turnover turned into easy points on the other end. Going forward, limiting careless passes will be essential if the Hornets hope to compete for a roster spot.

Liam McNeeley Leads the Scoring Attack

Former UConn first‑round pick Liam McNeeley shouldered the offensive load for Charlotte, chipping in 17 points during the defeat. His outing also included five rebounds, five assists and two blocks, showcasing his all‑around skill set. The 17‑point tally marked a strong return after a challenging season, reinforcing his status as a key contributor. McNeeley’s performance hints at the potential impact he could have in the upcoming regular season.

Ryan Kalkbrenner Provides Shot‑Blocking Presence

Charlotte’s defensive backbone emerged through Ryan Kalkbrenner, who notched four blocks in the loss to New Orleans. In addition to his shot‑blocking, Kalkbrenner added six points, three rebounds and two assists. His ability to protect the rim was a bright spot amid the team’s turnover woes. The big man’s contributions underline his growing role in the franchise’s defensive scheme.

Kylan Boswell impresses Off the Bench

Undrafted Illinois guard Kylan Boswell delivered a concise yet effective performance off the bench, scoring eight points on a perfect 3‑for‑3 shooting. Boswell also logged seven assists, four rebounds, one steal and, crucially, zero turnovers in 15 minutes of action. His clean execution provided a glimpse of the playmaking potential the Hornets can build upon. The rookie’s zero‑turnover game could be a template for the rest of the roster.

Hornets Look to Bounce Back Against Boston

After a 95‑91 setback, Charlotte will aim to rebound Sunday when the Hornets face the Boston Celtics in summer league play. The upcoming contest offers an opportunity to reset after the turnover‑heavy loss and demonstrate improved ball handling. Fans and scouts will be watching closely as the team seeks its first win of the showcase. A successful outing against Boston could shift momentum heading into the rest of the tournament.