Grant Williams’ Injury Update Casts Cloud Over Hornets’ Early-Season Plans
Grant Williams was expected to be a central figure in the Charlotte Hornets’ plans this season, thanks to his rare combination of positional versatility, defensive toughness, and veteran leadership. Yet, as training camp approaches, the Hornets may have to prepare for the possibility of starting the year without him.
Williams is still recovering from tears in his right ACL and meniscus, an injury that sidelined him for much of last season. In a recent conversation with Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer, the 26-year-old forward admitted that while he feels “great physically” and has returned to the court “in some capacity,” he is still unable to participate in full-contact drills. That detail alone suggests his full return could still be weeks—or even months—away.
Despite the setback, Williams has managed to keep a positive mindset. He spoke of finding “serenity” in getting shots up and talking a little trash during practice runs, even as his body heals. After knocking down 36.5% of his three-pointers during his brief 16-game stint with Charlotte last season, he is determined to continue sharpening his shooting stroke while embracing his identity as the team’s emotional enforcer.
Still, the Hornets face a tricky situation. Even if Williams recovers in time for opening night, there’s a strong chance he could miss all of training camp. That absence would cost him valuable time to integrate into new head coach Charles Lee’s system and build chemistry with a roster that has seen significant changes.
In Williams’ absence, rookie forward Tidjane Salaun is expected to absorb many of the minutes at power forward. Miles Bridges remains the other natural fit at the position, though Lee could also experiment with Moussa Diabate or Liam McNeeley in smaller lineups.
For now, Hornets fans will have to balance optimism with caution. Williams’ mental game appears strong, his recovery is progressing, and his presence around the team could still be impactful—but Charlotte knows it might be a while before he’s back to full strength.
