Hornets’ Remaining Games Loom Large in Tight Play-In Race
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The Charlotte Hornets enter the stretch run at 31-31 and squarely in the middle of the Eastern Conference playoff chase. Over the next few weeks, three divisional matchups could determine whether Charlotte secures the more forgiving No. 7 or No. 8 slots in the NBA play-in tournament or slips into the single-elimination Nos. 9-10 game.
Charlotte still has two contests left against the Miami Heat and another against the Orlando Magic, according to ESPN’s latest power rankings. Victories in those meetings would boost the Hornets’ chances of finishing seventh or eighth, positions that offer a double-chance format in the play-in.
Another key date is April 10, when the Hornets host the Detroit Pistons in their first meeting since last month’s on-court altercation between the clubs. If both teams remain in postseason contention and stick with regular rotations, the late-season clash could carry added intensity.
For now, head coach Steve Clifford’s squad is focused on the standings. Success against familiar Southeast Division foes may prove decisive when playoff seeding is finalized.
Source: Hoops Wire
