Hornets Coach Benches Naz Reid for Not Meeting Standards

Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee benched star forward Naz Reid in the second half of the team's 97-89 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, stating that Reid "didn't meet our standard" of play.

Reid, who is in his second season with the Hornets after signing a five-year, $125 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves in July 2025, was traded to Charlotte in June. Lee explained the decision after the game, saying, “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. But I look forward to him meeting those standards come next game.”

The Hornets held a 51-44 lead at halftime, but were outscored 53-38 in the second half without Reid on the court.

During the first half, with less than five minutes remaining, Reid appeared to be confused by play signals from Lee while talking with teammate Moussa Diabaté. On the subsequent possession, Reid seemed uncertain.

In 13 minutes of play, Reid finished with seven points on 2-of-6 shooting from the field and recorded one block.

Prior to this game, Reid had averaged 19.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in five games for the Hornets. He was acquired in the trade that sent NBA All-Star LaMelo Ball to the Timberwolves. The trade also brought the Hornets a 2033 unprotected first-round pick, three second-round picks, and pick swaps in 2028, 2029, and 2030.