Streaking Hornets Look to Capitalize Against Struggling Kings

Charlotte aims to extend winning streak against Sacramento's injury-plagued roster.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 1:55am

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The Charlotte Hornets, riding a five-out-of-six-game winning streak, host the struggling Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. The Hornets, led by guard LaMelo Ball's strong two-way play, are looking to take advantage of the Kings' injury woes and continue their push for a playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Kings are dealing with a rash of injuries that has left them dressing just 8-9 players per game, but they've managed to win 5 of their last 8 contests.

Why it matters

This matchup presents an opportunity for the Hornets to gain ground in the Eastern Conference playoff race, as they face one of the NBA's worst teams in the Kings. However, the Hornets must avoid overlooking their opponent, as the Kings have shown the ability to be competitive despite their injury issues.

The details

The Hornets have been led by the stellar play of guard LaMelo Ball, who is averaging 30 points in his last four games. Ball's impact goes beyond just scoring, as teammate Brandon Miller praised his defensive effort as well. Meanwhile, the Kings have been dealing with a rash of injuries, including a recent shoulder issue for guard Malik Monk. Despite the injuries, the Kings have managed to win 5 of their last 8 games, including a 126-122 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday in which Monk scored a season-high 32 points.

  • The Hornets and Kings will face off on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
  • The Hornets have won 5 of their last 6 games heading into this matchup.
  • The Kings have won 5 of their last 8 games, despite dealing with numerous injuries.

The players

LaMelo Ball

The Hornets' star guard is leading the team's recent surge, averaging 30 points in his last four games and making an impact on both ends of the floor.

Malik Monk

The former Hornet scored a season-high 32 points in the Kings' recent win over the Brooklyn Nets, despite dealing with a shoulder injury.

Maxime Raynaud

The Kings' rookie center has made an impact this season, averaging 11.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, though he has been overshadowed by other first-year standouts.

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What they’re saying

“There is no guarantees. It doesn't matter what the outside noise and expectations may be. That's why you've got to go out, you've got to execute. You have to have the appropriate respect for your opponent.”

— Charles Lee, Hornets Head Coach

“Him on the defensive side, nobody really talks about. Everybody always looks at the one-leg 3s, the flashy moves and lobs. One thing that separates him this season is the defensive effort and the competitor that he is.”

— Brandon Miller, Hornets Teammate

“It seems like every day, every other game somebody (is) getting hurt. Playing with eight, nine (guys), just trying to string it together and get something out of the games we're playing.”

— DeMar DeRozan, Kings Guard

What’s next

The Hornets will look to continue their strong play and capitalize on the Kings' injury woes, while the Kings will aim to overcome their roster challenges and pull off an upset on the road.

The takeaway

This matchup highlights the Hornets' opportunity to gain ground in the playoff race, but also serves as a reminder that they must maintain focus and respect for their struggling opponent. The Kings' ability to remain competitive despite their injury issues is a testament to their resilience, though they face an uphill battle against the surging Hornets.