The New York Knicks (43-25) are in Charlotte tonight to take on the Hornets (17-51). The Knicks are favorites . . . but they were last night in San Antonio, too.
While Jalen Brunson recovers from an ankle sprain New York has stumbled. They have dropped five of their last eight games, including a rough 120-105 loss yesterday in Texas. They will look to get right against a plummeting Hornets squad that lost two straight, including blowouts at the hands of the Clippers and Hawks.
The Knicks defeated the Hornets twice this season—by one point in November, and at MSG in December, 125-101. New York dominated on both ends, outrebounding Charlotte 52-44 and holding them to 44.9% shooting from the field. Every Knick starter scored at least 18 points. Mikal Bridges played 47 minutes. Those were the days. Brandon Miller scored 26 for the losers, but he won’t be a threat tonight. He’s been out of commission since January with a torn scapholunate ligament.
The Hornets’ injury report is blank. Thus, LaMelo Ball (25.4 PPG, 7.3 APG) should lead a starting unit of OAKAAK DaQuan Jeffries, Josh Green, Miles Bridges (21.1 PPG, 7.8 RPG), and Mark Williams. Despite what those lyin’ Lakers say, Williams seems healthy and has been solid in the paint, putting up 15.4 points and 10 rebounds per game.
Prediction
As my cousin always told me, never underestimate the ugly ones. ESPN.com favors the Knicks at 76%. Sure. Last night might have been a fluke. Bear in mind, though, that the Knicks have played six of their last seven games on the road, mostly out west; they’re playing the second game of a back-to-back; and the still-recovering Mitchell Robins might rest due to load management, which could give Charlotte an edge in the paint and on the glass. Tonight’s game could be either a dominating rebound for our heroes, or another demoralizing loss. We’re pulling for the former. Knicks by +10.
Game Details
Teams: New York Knicks at Charlotte Hornets
Location: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
Date and Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, 7:00 PM ET
Broadcast: MSG
Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky