Score predictions for Hornets vs. Knicks NBA Cup matchup

Rise and shine, it’s time for some Charlotte Hornets basketball. Tipping off at 12 p.m. EST, the Hornets and New York Knicks will battle in NBA Cup play at Spectrum Center. Charlotte is looking for their first win in group play while the Knicks are looking to remain unbeaten.

Here is how our staff sees today’s game playing out.

The Hornets have unfathomably gotten less healthy. This time, it’s LaMelo Ball missing some time. Without his almost nightly 30 points, the Hornets will struggle to score at all.

The Hornets are missing key players, including LaMelo Ball, making this NBA Cup matchup a tough one to win. With such a depleted roster, expect Charlotte to continue to struggle in group play. This game could serve as a valuable opportunity for Brandon Miller to work on creating his own shots and building confidence with his dribble. The Knicks will have an easy path to victory if they handle business.

I struggle to see a path to consistent offense for the Charlotte Hornets in this one. With LaMelo Ball on the pine, Charlotte will roll out lineups all afternoon that are completely absent of on-ball punch. The Knicks should handle the Hornets easily on Friday afternoon.

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