The New York Knicks remain undefeated in the preseason and defeated the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday at Madison Square Garden by a score of 111-105 for their fourth straight win with one preseason game remaining.

All of the Knicks’ starters sat out this game, giving head coach Tom Thibodeau a chance to see what his bench unit could do. The young boys delivered, beating a Hornets team that had most of its starters and putting on an impressive performance from start to finish.

The Knicks rookies shined against the Hornets

Although Precious Achiuwa was the most impressive player on the floor with 20 points, 16 rebounds and two made three-pointers, it was the Knicks’ 2024 draft class that drew the most attention.

Second-round pick Ariel Hukporti could earn a standard contract with his impressive preseason. He continued his strong run with a solid performance of eight points and five rebounds and added a block to his 22-minute tally.

Hukporti put on a great display of athleticism, including an emphatic poster dunk over Hornets center Nick Richards. If he gets a standard contract with the Knicks, he could have a lane to get consistent playing time and he could become the team’s backup center while Achiuwa moves to power forward.

First-round draft pick Pacome Dadiet made his unofficial Knicks debut against Charlotte. The French native was very impressive in his first ever appearance, scoring all 16 points in the second quarter and shooting 6 of 11 in the game and 3 of 5 from three-point range.

Rookie guard Tyler Kolek nearly had a triple-double with seven points, eight rebounds and nine assists, but struggled with his shooting in 24 minutes of play, going just 2-of-9 and 1-for-1 from the floor. for-6 out of three.

Kolek did not play in his final preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but had an impressive performance in the first two games. He’s trying to secure a spot in the rotation, although that chance may be running out with only one preseason game left.

Landry Shamet left in the third quarter with a shoulder injury

Perhaps the biggest action of the night comes from guard Landry Shamet. The veteran guard appeared to suffer a shoulder injury in the third quarter after attempting a steal on an entry pass. He was in severe pain afterward and was then escorted to the locker room, where he did not come out for the rest of the game.

Before the injury, Shamet had scored eight points in 20 minutes of play after being given the starting role while sitting. If his injury is serious, it would be a huge blow to him and the Knicks. Shamet is on a non-guaranteed contract and is looking to secure a spot on the roster, and his play early in preseason has made him a strong candidate to not only make the roster, but also be an important part of the rotation.

Thibodeau had no further information on Shamet’s status after the game. More information will be announced prior to their final preseason game scheduled for Friday night against the Washington Wizards before preparing for next Wednesday’s regular season opener against the Boston Celtics.