North Charlotte Today

The Charlotte Hornets faced the New York Knicks on Friday in a closely contested game at Spectrum Center, resulting in a narrow 99-98 loss. Despite missing key players, the Hornets relied on strong defense to remain competitive throughout the match.

Brandon Miller led the Hornets with 20 points, achieving his sixth consecutive game with at least 20 points. Josh Green matched his season high with 15 points, while rookies Tidjane Salaün and KJ Simpson contributed significantly. Salaün scored 14 points, including four three-pointers, and Simpson set personal records in points, assists, and steals.

For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson was the top scorer with 31 points and Karl-Anthony Towns recorded a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds. The Hornets' defense initially set the pace by limiting New York to a season-low of 15 points in the first quarter. However, New York's late-game surge proved decisive.

This game marked Charlotte's third consecutive contest allowing fewer than 100 points. They also forced a season-high 21 turnovers from New York. Despite their defensive efforts, injuries have impacted Charlotte's recent performances.

Brandon Miller struggled offensively but contributed in other areas with six rebounds and three blocks. Head Coach Charles Lee commented on the team's performance: “We did a really good job of keying in on tendencies... In that first half... we were covering for each other.”

The Hornets will next face the Atlanta Hawks at home as they conclude their back-to-back games.