Miles Bridges subbed out with around five minutes to go in the third quarter, sitting on 26 points. By my count, he took two shots after that point as the Hornets lost in overtime, 110-112.
Is this what the young people call “tanking”?
I doubt it. For one thing, the Hornets, even with their crazily-constructed roster full of spare parts and the roliest role-players ever, are still making their annual run at the 8th seed. They’re not too far behind for that final playoff spot, and at this point, they might as well go for it. They haven’t been losing enough games and have no hope to chase down teams like the Hawks and Warriors for the top pick.
And for another thing, I’m not sure that Bridges actually helps the Hornets win, and I bet the Hornets coaches kinda get that feeling too. When his offense is working, he has the appearance of a good player, especially when he throws it down with fury, but when it’s not? He’s not doing much. Tonight, he got hot from three early, but the flame seemed to burn down quickly and he didn’t even come close to setting the all time record for three-point makes in a game.