The Charlotte Hornets’ schedule for the 2024–25 NBA season has been released and offers a combination of challenges and opportunities.

New head coach Charles Lee and his young team are looking to bounce back from last season’s difficulties. The team has a challenging schedule ahead of them, including matchups with the defending champion Boston Celtics and top teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks, which will provide an opportunity to test the young team early.

The in-season tournament always adds a new dimension to the season. The team only has one nationally televised game, showing their desire to be in the spotlight.

With LaMelo Ball leading the offense and Lee focused on improving his defensive performance, as well as a healthy roster, the Hornets are determined to regain their place in the playoffs.

The stage is set, the players are ready and the Queen City is eagerly awaiting a promising season.

Important dates and meetings

• Season opening: October 23rd at the Houston Rockets – The season begins away against a young and talented Rockets team.
• Home game opener: October 26 vs. Miami Heat – The Hornets welcome a strong division rival for their first home game at the Spectrum Center.
• Seasonal tournament: November 12 – December 14 – The Hornets participate in the Emirates NBA Cup Tournament, with group play taking place during the regular season.
• Christmas Day: No game planned.
• Wembanyama visits: February 7 vs. San Antonio Spurs – The Hornets host the highly anticipated Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs.
• Lakers in town: January 27th vs. Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James and the Lakers come to Charlotte.
• Only nationally televised game: January 17th at the Chicago Bulls – Possible meeting between LaMelo Ball and his brother Lonzo Ball.
• Last two games: April 11 and 13: The Hornets face the Celtics in their final two away games of the regular season, two consecutive meetings with the defending champions.

Toughest routes

• Challenges at the beginning of the season: In the first month of the season, the Hornets have away trips to Houston, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Orlando, Cleveland and Milwaukee.
• December gauntlet: In the tough December, encounters with strong teams like the Knicks, 76ers (twice), Cavs and Pacers are on the agenda.
• West Coast Swing in February: A challenging four-game West Coast tour includes games against the Lakers, Clippers, Suns and Jazz.
• Back to backs: The Hornets have nine consecutive games this season, including an early game against the Celtics on Nov. 1 and 2, which could impact player rest and performance.

Simplest stretching exercises

• Home game in January – difficult period: The Hornets will play 9 of 16 games at home in January, giving them a chance to win.
• March – April against weaker opponents: The Hornets will face several teams expected to finish near the bottom of the standings in March and April, including the Wizards, Nets, Hawks, Raptors (twice) and Bulls.

General observations

• Lack of presence on national television: The Hornets have only had one nationally televised game so far, which suggests that they are not yet considered a top team.
• Home-heavy start: The Hornets play 18 of their first 34 games at home, which could prove to be an advantage early on.
• Impact on tournaments during the season: The season tournament always brings something special to the schedule.

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