The New York Knicks’ visit to the Charlotte Hornets has significant implications in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. The Hornets and Knicks face off with both teams looking to improve their standings.
Knicks Aim to Extend Winning Streak
New York enters the matchup having won seven consecutive games. This is tied for the longest active win streak in the NBA. The Knicks are a half-game behind the Boston Celtics for the 2-seed in the East, following Boston’s win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night.
A win for the Knicks against the Hornets would clinch them a playoff spot.
Hornets Seeking to Continue Climb
The Hornets have won their past four games and boast the league’s second-best record since Jan. 22.
Kon Knueppel has become the overwhelming favourite for Rookie of the Year honours. However, in two games against the Knicks this season, both Hornets losses, he’s averaging just 9.5 points on 25% shooting.
Rest of the NBA Schedule
There are two other games on the NBA schedule. The Detroit Pistons will look to take another step toward clinching the 1-seed in the East, hosting the New Orleans Pelicans, who were officially eliminated from postseason contention on Tuesday night. The Orlando Magic will look to end a six-game skid when they welcome the Sacramento Kings to town.
Looking ahead, the Hornets are currently in the play-in picture.