Naz Reid Benched in 2nd Half of Hornets' Loss to Pistons, HC Explains in Video

Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee discussed the decision to bench forward Naz Reid in the second half of a 97-89 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday.

"Unfortunately, Naz didn't meet our standards in the first half and at halftime we made the decision that he wouldn't play in the second half," Lee told reporters after the game. "But I look forward to him meeting those standards come next game."

Reid played 13 minutes in the first half, scoring seven points and grabbing six rebounds while shooting 2-of-6 from the field. He also recorded one block.

The Hornets led 51-44 at the half, although they were outscored 53-38 over the final two quarters to suffer their second loss of the season.

Reid was replaced in Charlotte's starting lineup by veteran swingman Royce O'Neale to begin the third period. O'Neale scored six points on 2-of-4 shooting in the second half, but didn't record a rebound or assist.

Lee's decision was surprising, as the Hornets acquired Reid as part of the blockbuster trade that sent LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves this summer.

Reid wrapped up an impressive tenure with Minnesota in which he blossomed into a key rotation piece on multiple playoff teams, earning Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2024.

He opened his Hornets career on a high note, as he averaged 19.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game across his first four games this season. Reid also shot 43.8 percent from the field and 41.2 percent from behind the arc across that span.

Despite his benching on Wednesday, it doesn't appear as though his starting spot is in jeopardy moving forward.

The Hornets will look to bounce back in their next contest, a matchup with the Washington Wizards on Friday. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. ET.