Charlotte Hornets vs New York Knicks preview and game info
For Porzingis, the Hornets can probably get by with Frank Kaminsky and Tyler Hansbrough, though I have genuine concerns about Spencer Hawes‘ ability to meaningfully contest Porzingis’ shots and stay on him when he makes a move.
Walker set the Charlotte Hornets’ franchise single-game scoring record by dropping 52 points on Utah in a 124-119 double-overtime victory.
Charlotte outscored NY 32-13 in the third quarter.
ABOUT THE HORNETS (20-23): Center Al Jefferson and swingman Michael Kidd-Gilchrist have been out long term, but Charlotte was also without Nicolas Batum (toe) and Cody Zeller (shoulder) Friday while Jeremy Lamb (toe) was limited to four minutes.
Luckily, the Hornets came out with a win and their starters are relatively fresh for tonight’s game.
Orlando has now lost nine of its last 11 games.
General manager David Griffin told reporters Friday night that the Cavs had been taking steps back and were lacking connection. A slow first half concluded with Charlotte leading 45-43. In 41 games this season, 13 year veteran Carmelo Anthony is averaging 21.6 points per game and a modest 7.5 rebounds to accompany. Charlotte would eventually hang on to their lead after a Knick’s comeback effort, completing a 97-84 victory. “Can’t wait to be back out there”, Kerr told reporters after Friday’s shootaround. “But he’s making the right plays, though, he’s getting assists as well, he’s rebounding as well so he’s going to give you his all each and every night and I think that’s why he’s playing so well”.
Fisher said the Knicks are “definitely feeling the impact” of their recent success, and the challenge ahead is to prove they can beat better teams.
Inside the Box ScoreKemba Walker finished with a game-high-tying 26 points, six rebounds and a team-high-tying five assists…
The Knicks shot (29-77) 37.7% from the field and (7-24) from the three-point line.
“He came over and said leave me in there”, Charlotte coach Steve Clifford said. I like Troy Daniels a lot, but he probably shouldn’t be playing 32 minutes. This is a tribute to the roster that has been put together coming into the season.
The up-and-down performances leaves a legitimate question – although one that Fisher didn’t want to hear – about just what the Knicks are and what they can become. Walker is having the best season of his career and has quietly been one of the best scoring point guards in the Eastern Conference. Hairston has continued to improve offensively, shooting 50 percent from the field and converting on two timely 3-pointers against NY. “He’s controlling the whole game for our team right now”. Despite missing over half of his team’s games it would not be shocking to see the Cleveland Cavaliers point guard be elected to start the All-Star Game by the fans.
They looked exhausted as did the Hornets, who also played Friday, but in Orlando.