Brandon Miller had a bit of a slow start to the 2025-26 season, and it did not help matters at all that he was dealing with a lingering shoulder injury. But when the Charlotte Hornets began to roll towards the middle of the campaign, Miller's play took off too. When the calendar flipped to 2026, Miller averaged 20.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists on 45/40/92 shooting splits — blossoming into a two-way star who commands so much respect from the perimeter.

Heading into the new campaign, there remains some concern surrounding Miller's shoulder. After all, a subluxation means that there is partial dislocation, which the Hornets star could exacerbate. This explains why Miller was wearing thick layers of protection for his shoulder just so he could suit up in 65 games for Charlotte last season.

But in what will be music to Hornets fans' ears, Miller delivered an incredible update on his shoulder as he continues to heal from this bothersome issue following offseason surgery.

“Last year my shoulder just wasn't holding up. It was either popping out of place, feeling funny, or just 10/10 pain. Now just limiting that pain to 0/10. Shoulder is not popping out of place, it's been stable… I think that can take my game to another level,” Miller said in an appearance on the Wes & Walker Show on WFNZ Radio Charlotte.

🎙️ Brandon Miller: "Last year my shoulder just wasn't holding up. It was either popping out of place, feeling funny, or just 10/10 pain. Now just limiting that pain to 0/10. Shoulder is not popping out of place, it's been stable… I think that can take my game to another level." pic.twitter.com/t1c6ZNQUOI

— r/CharlotteHornets (@HornetsReddit) September 28, 2026

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With LaMelo Ball now with the Minnesota Timberwolves, the runway is there for Miller to become the undisputed number one option for the Hornets. Kon Knueppel will also miss the start of the season due to a hamstring injury, which just opens up even more usage for Miller.

In 65 games last season, Miller put up 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists on 44/38/89 shooting splits. Those numbers should improve in Year 4 of his career.

It's not too unfathomable for Miller to average around 25 points to start the season, and the Hornets are clearly invested in his development. It should only be a matter of time before the two parties come to terms on a contract extension.