The New York Knicks opened their preseason on October 5 with a 111-109 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Newcomers Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and Landry Shamet debuted in the orange and blue, while Deuce McBride led the team off the bench with 22 points. After a slow start, the Knicks’ second unit – including dime dealer Tyler Kolek – mounted a comeback in the second half (with help from Duane Washington Jr., who blocked three freebies with one second on the clock).

UPDATE: The Knicks will rest their starters tonight.

Since then, both teams have won twice. The Knicks defeated the Wizards and the Wolves, while the Hornets defeated the Heat and the Grizz.

The Knicks’ new look is starting to come together, with the starters showing more cohesion in recent contests. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller continue to lead Charlotte’s young team.

The Hornets had four days off, so Cody Martin and Nick Smith Jr. could make their preseason debuts once they recover from their injuries. Center Mark Williams is out until the start of the season, so Nick Richards will play in his place tonight. Ball and small forward Josh Green were held out of the Memphis game but were expected to play. And Miles Bridges continues to play professional basketball.

The Hornets can be a boisterous bunch and will be looking for revenge after their narrow loss to the Knicks. New York surpasses them in talent many times over miiillealthough. Tonight’s game should be hard fought and our heroes will come out on top. Bends by +8.

(Editor’s note: After the appetizer, look for Tyler Kolek to put on his grilling apron and cook up these Carolina beetles. Knicks at +30.)

Game details

Who: New York Knicks vs. Charlotte Hornets
When: Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Madison Square Garden, NYC
Watch: MSG and NBA League Pass
Follow: @ptknicksblog