Celtics Shorthanded as Hornets Look to Capitalize at Home

Charlotte's electric backcourt aims to torch Boston's depleted lineup in critical Eastern Conference matchup.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 3:16pm

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The Charlotte Hornets host the Boston Celtics in a crucial Eastern Conference matchup, with the Hornets looking to capitalize on Boston's lengthy injury report. Charlotte has been strong against top opponents this season, while the Celtics could be without several key players, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White.

Why it matters

This game holds major implications in the tight Eastern Conference Play-In race, with just a half-game separating teams 8-10. The Hornets are looking to bounce back after having their five-game winning streak snapped, while the Celtics are aiming to manage their injuries ahead of a four-game road trip.

The details

The Hornets have been impressive against highly-rated opponents this season, going 12-8 ATS as home underdogs and 27-17 ATS overall as underdogs. They recently recorded covers against top-10 teams like the Knicks, Magic, and Heat. Meanwhile, the Celtics could be without three of their top four scorers, as Tatum, Brown, and White are all listed as questionable. This could leave Boston vulnerable on the perimeter, where the Hornets excel, ranking third in the NBA in 3-point accuracy.

  • The Celtics are starting a four-game road trip, and this is the first night of a back-to-back.
  • The Hornets are looking to bounce back after having their five-game winning streak snapped on Saturday.

The players

Jayson Tatum

Celtics star forward who is a game-time decision as the team manages his recovery from a major injury.

Jaylen Brown

Celtics All-Star guard who missed the team's last game with Achilles tendonitis and is questionable again.

Derrick White

Celtics guard who played after being questionable with a knee contusion on Friday and has the same status for Sunday's game.

Kon Knueppel

Hornets rookie who leads the NBA in 3-pointers made and is fifth in 3-point percentage, poised to have a big game against Boston's struggling perimeter defense.

LaMelo Ball

Hornets star guard who has scored 20+ points in his last six games and will look to take advantage of Boston's shorthanded lineup.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.