Hornets Rout Resting Knicks to Secure Home Play-In Game

Charlotte takes care of business against New York's backups to set up crucial matchup with Miami

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:27pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the fast-paced energy and raw athleticism of an NBA basketball game, with players' forms dissolving into unrecognizable bursts of movement.The Hornets' high-octane offense overwhelms the Knicks' backups, securing a crucial home Play-In game for Charlotte.Today in Miami

The Charlotte Hornets (43-38) took care of business in their regular season finale, routing the resting New York Knicks (53-28) 124-101 at Madison Square Garden. With the win, the Hornets secured a home Play-In game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday.

Why it matters

The Hornets needed to win this game to earn a home Play-In game, which gives them a significant advantage over having to travel to Miami. After two tough losses to close the season, this win restores momentum and confidence heading into the crucial Play-In matchup.

The details

The Hornets took advantage of the Knicks resting their starters, jumping out to an early lead and never looking back. Charlotte led by as many as 23 points, getting balanced scoring from their core players like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Terry Rozier.

  • The game tipped off at 6:00 PM ET on April 12, 2026.
  • The Hornets finished the regular season with a 44-38 record.

The players

LaMelo Ball

The Hornets' star point guard and leader, who had a big game to help secure the home Play-In matchup.

Miles Bridges

Charlotte's high-flying forward, who provided scoring punch alongside Ball.

Terry Rozier

The veteran guard who has been a key contributor for the Hornets all season.

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player who surprisingly played in their final game despite having nothing to play for.

Charles Lee

The Hornets' head coach, who led the team to a strong finish to the regular season.

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What they’re saying

“We knew what was at stake tonight and we came out focused and ready to take care of business. This home Play-In game is huge for us, and we're excited to have our fans behind us on Wednesday.”

— LaMelo Ball, Hornets Point Guard

“Giving up a home Play-In game to the Hornets is a tough pill to swallow, but we decided it was more important to rest our guys and get ready for the playoffs. Charlotte is a talented team and they deserve credit for taking advantage of the opportunity.”

— Tom Thibodeau, Knicks Head Coach

What’s next

The Hornets will host the Miami Heat in a Play-In game on Wednesday, April 15th at 7:00 PM ET. The winner will advance to the first round of the NBA playoffs as the 8th seed.

The takeaway

The Hornets took care of business against a resting Knicks team to secure a crucial home Play-In game against their division rival Miami Heat. After two tough losses to close the regular season, this win should give Charlotte momentum and confidence heading into the high-stakes matchup with the Heat.