How Can the Hornets Beat the Knicks?
The Charlotte Hornets enter this game off of a loss to the Orlando Magic. While Charlotte were able to keep up in the scoring department, their lack of defensive focus ensured their end.
In their last game, the Hornets allowed their opponents to shoot 51.7% from the field and convert on 15 three-point field goals.
The Hornets were able to force 19 turnovers out of the Magic in their last game, but their aggressiveness left them exposed at times. If they can control their defensive pressure, the Hornets can continue to climb up the Eastern Conference.
Hornets Key Player: (G) LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball is usually the playmaking and energetic leader for the Charlotte Hornets. However, despite his production, Charlotte were unable to come up with a win in his last game.
Ball is coming off of a performance where he posted 23 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds in 30 minutes of play. He was 8 of 18 from the field and 3 of 7 from three-point range, but he was still a team-low minus-13 on the night.
Ball must be more disciplined on the defensive side of the ball, as he collected five fouls in 30 minutes of play. If he can keep his man in check on the defensive end, the Hornets have a great chance.
How Can the Knicks Beat the Hornets?
The New York Knicks were excellent in their last game, taking advantage of a less than focused Atlanta Hawks defence. Against the Charlotte Hornets, the Knicks need to control the pace and beat the opposing defence early.
In their last game the Knicks shot 50.6% from the field and 41.9% from three-point range. While the Knicks haven’t shown the most consistent defence themselves, New York have shown the grit to keep up in the scoring department.
Against the Hornets, who have one of the poorer defences in the NBA, the Knicks could have a scoring advantage. However, their own defensive standards need to improve to hold off the dynamic scoring unit across from them.
Knicks Key Player: (G) RJ Barrett
The New York Knicks have found some great success as of late, and much of it has to do with the play of RJ Barrett. Over his last ten games, where the Knicks are 7-3, Barrett has been excellent.
The Canadian international is averaging 22.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game over his last ten. He’s shooting 46% from the field and 40% from three on 5.5 three-point attempts per game.
Barrett’s willingness to take on the lead ball-handling role has benefitted the Knicks in the absence of Walker and Rose. Against another talented guard in LaMelo Ball, Barrett will be expected to produce.
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