Hornets found more than their shooting touch in win over Cavs

The Hornets probably can’t count on making half their three-pointers every night. They can ask for more of the rebounding and contributions throughout the lineup that helped end their six-game losing streak.

Monday’s 124-112 win over the Cavs offered some evidence of what can work, even with several important players unavailable.

Mark Livingston of Hornets On SI examined the performance, highlighting the improved shooting, production from a depleted rotation and a fourth quarter that became unnecessarily uncomfortable.

The shooting was the obvious difference. Charlotte entered at 28.8% from three, then made 23 of 46 against the Cavs. Grayson Allen led the way with 27 points and six triples.

But Ryan Kalkbrenner’s work deserves attention, too. He grabbed 15 rebounds, including 10 on the offensive glass. Those extra possessions gave the Hornets opportunities that didn’t depend on making the first shot.

Naz Reid added 25 points and 13 rebounds, while Tidjane Salaün supplied a season-high 14 points off the bench. With Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and Moussa Diabaté sidelined, Charlotte needed that help.

The Hornets also finished with 29 assists. They moved the ball, found shooters and punished a defense that repeatedly failed to recover.

Then came the part Charles Lee probably won’t enjoy reviewing. Charlotte’s 33-point lead shrank to eight with less than four minutes remaining. After scoring 78 points across the middle two quarters, the Hornets managed just 17 in the fourth.

As Livingston noted, finishing remains an issue. A team that has struggled this much can’t afford to make a good night that difficult.

Still, the Hornets earned themselves something useful. They showed they could generate offense and control the glass without their full lineup. Doing those things again would mean more than waiting for another 23-three-pointer night.

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