Game Preview
The New York Knicks enter Thursday's matchup against the Charlotte Hornets riding a three-game winning streak and boasting an impressive 13-8 record on the season. Their recent surge is fueled by a potent offense averaging 119.4 points over the last five games, a shade above their season mark of 117.9 points per contest.
While the Knicks have been lighting up the scoreboard, their defense has also tightened, allowing just 107.2 points during this hot stretch. This two-way balance has propelled them to an 8-2 record over their last 10 games, shooting a blistering 50.3 percent from the field and a scorching 40 percent from beyond the arc.
Sharing the rock has been key for the Knicks, as they've dished out 29 assists per game over this span, bolstering an already formidable offense. Their ability to control the glass with 43.3 rebounds per contest has also contributed to their recent dominance.
In stark contrast, the Charlotte Hornets limp into this matchup mired in a six-game losing skid, their longest of the season. Over their last five games, the Hornets have struggled mightily on offense, scoring just 96.8 points while shooting a paltry 40.2 percent from the field and a dismal 32.6 percent from three-point range.
While the Hornets have managed to hold opponents to 101.8 points during this stretch, their lack of offensive firepower has proven too much to overcome. Their season-long issues with turnovers (15.2 per game over the last five) and subpar free throw shooting (71.2 percent) have only compounded their woes.
With the Knicks firing on all cylinders and the Hornets desperately seeking answers, this matchup has all the makings of a lopsided affair. New York's balanced attack and Charlotte's prolonged scoring drought loom large as the two teams prepare to clash at Madison Square Garden.