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Hornets, Heat Drop Starting Lineups for Play-In Tournament Matchup
Charlotte and Miami set to face off in the first game of the NBA's Play-In Tournament
Apr. 14, 2026 at 11:07pm
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The high-stakes Play-In Tournament matchup between the Hornets and Heat is captured in a cubist, deconstructed style that reflects the intensity and unpredictability of the postseason clash.NYC TodayThe Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat have announced their starting lineups for their Play-In Tournament matchup. The Hornets will start LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, and Moussa Diabaté, while the Heat will counter with Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Andrew Wiggins, Kel'el Ware, and Bam Adebayo.
Why it matters
This Play-In Tournament game is a crucial postseason opportunity for both teams, as they look to secure a spot in the NBA Playoffs. The Hornets are hoping to end their recent playoff drought, while the Heat aim to build on their success from last season.
The details
The Hornets will rely on their young core, led by LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges, to try and overcome the experienced Heat squad. Miami will counter with a balanced attack featuring Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, and the newly acquired Andrew Wiggins. Both teams have had mixed results in their recent matchups, setting the stage for an intriguing and competitive Play-In Tournament showdown.
- The game will tip off at approximately 7:30 p.m. ET on April 14, 2026.
- The Hornets and Heat have faced each other twice already this season, with the Heat winning the first matchup and the Hornets taking the second.
The players
LaMelo Ball
The Hornets' star point guard, who is looking to lead his team to the playoffs for the first time in his career.
Bam Adebayo
The Heat's All-Star center, who has been playing at a high level and will be a key factor in this matchup.
Miles Bridges
The Hornets' veteran forward, who has experienced the team's recent playoff disappointments and is determined to help them break through this year.
Tyler Herro
The Heat's sharpshooting guard, who can take over a game with his scoring ability.
Moussa Diabaté
The Hornets' young center, who has been a rebounding and defensive presence in recent matchups against the Heat.
What’s next
The winner of this Play-In Tournament matchup will advance to face the loser of the game between the higher-seeded teams in the Eastern Conference. The loser of this game will be eliminated from the postseason.
The takeaway
This Play-In Tournament game represents a crucial opportunity for both the Hornets and Heat to secure a spot in the NBA Playoffs. The young Hornets squad, led by LaMelo Ball, will look to overcome the experience and talent of the Heat, who are led by Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. The outcome of this matchup could have significant implications for the postseason landscape in the Eastern Conference.
