Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel (7) shoots a three-point basket during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Sacramento Kings (Image via AP Photo) The March 24 game in Charlotte brings together two teams in very different situations. The Charlotte Hornets are close to full strength and still pushing for a playoff spot. The Sacramento Kings, meanwhile, are dealing with a long list of injuries that has taken out several key players for this game and beyond.That gap in availability shapes how this matchup looks going in. Charlotte has continuity in its rotation and a defined style on both ends. Sacramento is still adjusting lineups and relying on available pieces to fill major roles, which has affected consistency throughout the season.
Sacramento Kings vs Charlotte Hornets Injury report and availability overview (March 24, 2026)
Charlotte has limited concerns. Kon Knueppel is probable with a back issue, and Tidjane Salaun is out with a calf injury. The rest of the group is expected to play, including LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Coby White, Tre Mann, Miles Bridges, and others across the rotation.Sacramento’s injury list is extensive. De’Andre Hunter, Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and Drew Eubanks are out for the season. Keegan Murray, Russell Westbrook, and Nique Clifford are also out. Precious Achiuwa and Killian Hayes are questionable, Isaiah Stevens is day-to-day, and Daeqwon Plowden is probable. Available players include DeMar DeRozan, Malik Monk, Devin Carter, Doug McDermott, and Maxime Raynaud.
Sacramento Kings vs Charlotte Hornets Key storylines and matchup dynamics
Charlotte has its main pieces available. Ball handles playmaking duties, while Miller continues as a primary scorer. Knueppel is expected to play, which adds more shooting and spacing to the lineup. 
Charlotte Hornets vs Sacramento Kings (Image via Getty)
Sacramento is working with fewer options. With Sabonis and LaVine out, more responsibility falls on DeRozan and Monk to create offense. Raynaud has taken on a larger role inside. Achiuwa’s status matters, as his presence would help on defense and rebounding. Without him, the frontcourt remains thin.
Sacramento Kings vs Charlotte Hornets Team performance snapshot
Charlotte has been steady on both ends. The team scores 116.1 points per game and allows 112.1. It leads the league in three-pointers made and holds a strong rebounding margin. Ball, Miller, and Knueppel have all been producing close to 20 points per game in recent outings.Sacramento ranks near the bottom in key categories. The team averages 111.0 points and allows 121.0. It also trails the league in three-point shooting and sits below average in rebounding. Raynaud has provided consistent production in the paint, while DeRozan remains the top scoring option.
Sacramento Kings vs Charlotte Hornets Head-to-head context and tactical edges
These teams met earlier in March, and Charlotte took advantage of a similar situation with Sacramento’s injuries. The same factors apply here. The Hornets generate more three-point attempts and convert at a higher rate, creating a scoring gap.Rebounding is another difference. Charlotte holds a clear edge, with Diabate and Tillman leading the effort inside. Defensively, the Hornets allow fewer points and maintain better structure.For Sacramento, staying competitive depends on DeRozan’s shot creation, Monk’s scoring, and Raynaud’s work inside. Any added contribution from Achiuwa or Hayes would help balance the rotation.
Sacramento Kings vs Charlotte Hornets Roster comparison at a glance
CategoryHornets (current)Kings (current)2025-26 record37-34, in playoff hunt19-53, near bottom of WestOffensive styleFast pace, high three-point volume, multiple ball handlersHalf-court sets, DeRozan mid-range focusDefensive anchorsDiabate, Tillman, long wingsRaynaud, Achiuwa (if active)Injury impactMinimal, rotation intactMultiple starters outThree-point shooting16.2 per game, league-leading10.2 per game, last in NBACoachingEmphasis on pace and spacingConstant lineup adjustmentsAlso read: Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Sacramento Kings: Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star’s injury report (March 24, 2026)Charlotte enters with the advantage in health, shooting, and depth, along with home court. Sacramento will need efficient scoring and contributions across its available players to keep the game close.