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The Hornets look to secure home-court advantage for the Play-In Tournament by taking down a resting Knicks squad in the regular season finale.Today in Miami
The Charlotte Hornets (43-38) wrap up their regular season schedule with a matchup against the third-seeded New York Knicks (53-28) at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have already secured their playoff spot, so they are resting their key players, giving the Hornets a prime opportunity to secure a home Play-In game against the Miami Heat.
Why it matters
This game is crucial for the Hornets, as a win would give them home-court advantage for their upcoming Play-In Tournament matchup against the Heat. Charlotte has struggled down the stretch, so this is a must-win game to build momentum heading into the postseason.
The details
The Hornets are looking to bounce back after two tough losses, while the Knicks are sitting their starters with the playoffs already locked up. Charlotte should have a significant advantage and is expected to win comfortably against the Knicks’ reserve unit.
The game tips off at 6:00 PM Eastern Time on April 12, 2026.This is the final game of the Hornets’ 82-game regular season schedule.
The players
Charlotte Hornets
An NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina that is looking to secure a home Play-In game against the Miami Heat.
New York Knicks
An NBA team based in New York City that has already clinched a playoff spot and is resting its key players for this game.
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What’s next
If the Hornets win this game, they will secure a home Play-In Tournament matchup against the Miami Heat. The winner of that game will advance to the NBA playoffs.
The takeaway
This is a must-win game for the Hornets, as a victory would give them home-court advantage for their crucial Play-In Tournament matchup against the Heat. Charlotte needs to take advantage of the Knicks resting their starters and finish the regular season on a high note.