Final Score Recap:
Charlotte Hornets 113 - Cleveland Cavaliers 118
Game Breakdown:
In a thrilling contest between the Hornets and Cavaliers, it was Kon Knueppel who stole the spotlight with a career-high performance. Knueppel was on fire from beyond the arc, sinking 7 of his 15 three-point attempts and racking up 33 points, along with 6 rebounds and 2 assists. His shooting display was nothing short of spectacular, as each shot seemed destined to find the net.
On the flip side, Brandon Miller's early foul trouble proved costly for Charlotte. With just 15 points to his name, his absence during crucial moments left the Hornets scrambling for answers.
Ryan Kalkbrenner emerged as a pivotal figure for the Cavaliers, contributing a double-double with 12 points and a commanding 13 rebounds, 7 of which were on the offensive end. His presence in the paint was a game-changer, providing Cleveland with second-chance opportunities that kept their momentum alive.
Tre Mann, however, struggled to find his rhythm, leading to a series of unproductive possessions that frustrated the Hornets' efforts.
News and Notes:
Charlotte faced a slew of absences due to injuries and suspensions, with key players like Liam McNeeley, Coby White, Grant Williams, Moussa Diabate, and Miles Bridges unavailable for the night. This left the Hornets starting with LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, Sion James, Brandon Miller, and Ryan Kalkbrenner.
Cleveland, too, had to adjust their lineup with Evan Mobley, Max Strus, and Riley Minix sidelined. The Cavaliers rolled out a starting five of James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Sam Merrill, and Jarrett Allen.
A highlight of the evening was the showdown between the league's top two three-point shooters this season, Kon Knueppel and Donovan Mitchell. Both players showcased their long-range prowess, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already intense matchup.
In the end, it was Cleveland's ability to capitalize on key plays and maintain composure that secured their victory, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in this competitive rivalry.