Fri Dec 06 00:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Knicks Aim for Third Straight Win Against Undermanned Hornets

**New York, NY** – The New York Knicks look to continue their December dominance as they host the Charlotte Hornets tonight at Madison Square Garden. Riding a two-game winning streak, fueled by impressive victories over the Pelicans and Magic, the Knicks are favored to make it three in a row against a Hornets team hampered by injuries and a seven-game losing streak.

The Hornets, missing star point guard LaMelo Ball (calf injury), are struggling offensively, ranking among the league’s worst in several key categories. While they excel in three-point attempts, Ball’s absence will significantly impact their offensive production. The Knicks will need to contain their long-range shooting, however, to prevent a potential upset.

Despite their offensive woes, the Hornets have shown surprising defensive resilience under first-year coach Charles Lee. They present a challenge, having been one of only two teams to hold the Knicks under 100 points this season. The Knicks will face key Hornets players including Vasilije Micic, Josh Green (a former teammate of Jalen Brunson), Brandon Miller, Tidjane Salaun, and Nick Richards. Miller, the Hornets’ leading scorer, will be a key player to watch after a subpar performance in their last meeting. Richards’ return after missing the last game against the Knicks should also provide a boost to Charlotte.

The Knicks, however, have shown improved defense and a potent offense recently. While acknowledging the possibility of an upset, the pre-game analysis favors a comfortable Knicks victory. Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson are expected to lead the Knicks’ offensive charge.

The game tips off tonight at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks enter with a 12-8 record, while the Hornets sit at 6-15. Several Knicks players are questionable due to injuries: Cam Payne (elbow), Achiuwa (hamstring), Mitchell Robinson (ankle), and Kevin McCullar Jr. (knee). For the Hornets, Grant Williams is out with a knee injury.

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