After spending the last seven seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, veteran guard Pat Connaughton found himself in new colors this year. Traded to the Charlotte Hornets during the offseason, the move marked the third stop of his 11-year NBA career.
When Connaughton arrived in Charlotte, expectations were modest. According to Hornets general manager Jeff Peterson, Connaughton was initially told that making the final roster was unlikely. Still, the 32-year-old guard remained committed, working his way into shape and ultimately earning a spot on the team. The move also reunited him with Charles Lee, his former assistant coach in Milwaukee and now the Hornets’ second-year head coach.
On Wednesday night, Connaughton faced his former team for the first time — and made his presence felt. With LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller sidelined, Connaughton stepped up in extended minutes, delivering his best performance as a Hornet. He scored 11 points in 11 minutes on efficient 4-for-6 shooting, including 2-for-4 from three-point range, while adding two rebounds and two assists.
After the game, Coach Lee praised Connaughton for his professionalism and leadership.
“He’s been very helpful to our team,” Lee said. “His daily routines and habits are so professional, and our guys need more people around them that model winning behaviors. His vocal leadership has been amazing.”
For a young Hornets team still searching for stability, Connaughton’s experience is invaluable. A member of the 2021 Bucks championship team, he brings a veteran presence and a winning mindset to a roster in the midst of a decade-long playoff drought.
Charlotte will have Thursday off before traveling to Milwaukee for a rematch — one where Connaughton is likely to receive a warm ovation from the fans who once cheered him on.
More Hornets news:
- Hornets rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner surges up NBA leaderboards despite team loss
- Kon Knueppel follows career high with near triple-double vs. Lakers
- GM Peterson to Connaughton: 'You're probably not making the team'
- Kon Knueppel scores career-high 30 in Hornets’ loss to Heat