The Charlotte Hornets return home to Spectrum Center tonight to host the Golden State Warriors, and as is often the case, the night carries extra significance in Charlotte.
It’s always an event when Stephen Curry comes back home. The Charlotte native remains one of the most celebrated basketball figures the region has ever produced, and his return consistently brings a different buzz to the city.
That connection was on full display last night at Davidson College, where Curry was honored with signage previewing the future naming of the “Stephen Curry Interchange” off I-77 — a lasting tribute to his impact both locally and nationally. Moments like that underscore how deeply intertwined Curry still is with the Carolinas, even as he continues to headline marquee matchups across the league.
On the basketball side, Charlotte enters the game with several roster storylines to monitor. Kon Knueppel is listed as probable to return after rolling his ankle against Orlando. That will be a big boost considering Miles Bridges is questionable after his ankle injury against the Bucks the other night.
The Hornets will also be thin at big man, yet again, with Ryan Kalkbrenner and Mason Plumlee listed as out.
Much of Charlotte’s recent increased steadiness has revolved around LaMelo Ball, who has looked stronger and stronger since returning from injury. Brandon Miller is also playing stronger coming off of a 31 point season high game against the Bucks.
From a matchup standpoint, the biggest question for Charlotte will be how it handles Golden State’s movement without the ball. The Warriors don’t beat you with isolation — they beat you by forcing constant decisions.
For the Charlotte Hornets, that puts a premium on communication, especially through off-ball screens and dribble handoffs. Guards and wings will need to stay connected, because even a half-second of confusion can turn into an open three against a team that thrives on punishing mistakes.
Per usual, Charlotte’s shooting could quietly swing the game. If Kon Knueppel and Lamelo Ball are able to stretch the floor and punish help defense, it forces Golden State to stay honest and limits how aggressively it can load up on those guys.
This will be an opportunity to end the year on a strong note with win number twelve.