Knicks' Hart calls out team's slow pace in loss to Hornets

New York guard Josh Hart says Hornets' aggressive play exposed Knicks' lack of energy

Mar. 27, 2026 at 6:10am

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The New York Knicks saw their seven-game winning streak snapped by the Charlotte Hornets, who won 114-103 on Thursday night. Knicks guard Josh Hart admitted that the Hornets' fast-paced play, led by Melo Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller, left the Knicks a step slow and unable to keep up. Despite forcing 18 Hornets turnovers, the Knicks struggled to match Charlotte's energy and aggression, especially in attacking the rim.

Why it matters

The loss highlights the Knicks' need to improve their transition defense and overall pace of play, especially against up-tempo teams like the Hornets. As the playoffs approach, the Knicks will need to find ways to match the energy and intensity of their opponents to avoid similar letdowns.

The details

The Hornets led by as much as 21 points and were able to maintain their lead despite a late Knicks rally. Knueppel had a big game for Charlotte with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, including 6 three-pointers. Ball and Miller also scored 22 and 21 points respectively, with 4 three-pointers each. The Knicks were outscored 16-9 at the free-throw line.

  • The Knicks' seven-game winning streak was snapped on March 27, 2026.
  • The Knicks will return to action on Sunday, April 6, 2026 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The players

Josh Hart

A guard for the New York Knicks who had 16 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 steals in the loss.

Kon Knueppel

A forward for the Charlotte Hornets who had 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, including 6 three-pointers.

Melo Ball

A guard for the Charlotte Hornets who scored 22 points and hit 4 three-pointers.

Brandon Miller

A guard for the Charlotte Hornets who scored 21 points and hit 4 three-pointers.

Jalen Brunson

A guard for the New York Knicks who led the team with 26 points and 13 assists in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“They (Hornets) played like they were shot out of a cannon. I felt like we were a step slower in a lot of their actions.”

— Josh Hart, Guard, New York Knicks

“They were pushing that pace. Obviously, they got Melo (Ball) pushing the pace a lot, but they have multiple ball-handlers in that unit. They don't just rely on him.”

— Josh Hart, Guard, New York Knicks

What’s next

The Knicks will look to bounce back on Sunday, April 6, 2026 when they take on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The takeaway

This loss highlights the Knicks' need to improve their transition defense and overall pace of play, especially against up-tempo teams like the Hornets. As the playoffs approach, the Knicks will need to find ways to match the energy and intensity of their opponents to avoid similar letdowns.