Hornets vs Knicks Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/20/2025

The New York Knicks head into Charlotte nursing wounds from a recent slump, having dropped five of their last eight games and still missing key playmaker Jalen Brunson to an ankle sprain.

While the Hornets have shown flashes of competence by splitting their last six games, their recent 32-point drubbing by the Hawks and the uncertain status of LaMelo Ball cast shadows over their readiness for this matchup.

The stage is set for an intriguing clash at the Spectrum Center, where the battle-tested Knicks (43-25) look to right their ship against a scrappy Hornets (17-51) squad that's proven surprisingly resilient on their home court.

Charlotte Hornets vs. New York Knicks preview

The struggling Knicks head to Charlotte's Spectrum Center looking to shake off their recent slump, having dropped five of their last eight games including an embarrassing loss to the Spurs where they shot a measly 42% from the field.

Karl-Anthony Towns has been the lone bright spot for New York, dropping 32 points in their last outing, but the team's offense has looked lost without injured playmaker Jalen Brunson running the show.

The Hornets aren't exactly setting the world on fire either, splitting their last six games and coming off two brutal blowout losses to the Hawks and Clippers.

While Charlotte's injury report looks clean, there's still uncertainty around LaMelo Ball's availability, though Miles Bridges is expected back in the lineup - which could give the Hornets the spark they desperately need.

The matchup features two teams heading in opposite directions this season - the playoff-bound Knicks at 43-25 versus the lottery-bound Hornets at 17-51 - but New York's recent back-to-back struggles against Charlotte (losing 11 of their last 13) make this more interesting than the records suggest.

Keep an eye on Mikal Bridges, who's been stepping up for the Knicks lately with efficient scoring, including a recent 28-point performance on 10-of-14 shooting.

The Hornets' Seth Curry might be worth watching too - he put up 19 points in their last game and could see increased minutes if Ball remains sidelined.

With both teams struggling to find their rhythm lately, this cross-conference matchup might not be the prettiest basketball we'll see this season, but it could end up being closer than many expect.