As the Charlotte Hornets face the Milwaukee Bucks, they are determined to break their three-game losing streak. The Hornets’ current record stands at 3-7, which is far from their expectations for the 2025-2026 NBA season. Injuries to key players, including Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball, have significantly impacted their performance. Both players have missed five consecutive games, leaving the team in a tough spot.
Hornets’ Challenges
The absence of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller has left a substantial void in the Hornets’ lineup. Fans are hoping for a quicker recovery for their star players, as the team struggles to find consistency on the court. They’ve suffered in six out of their last seven games, making this matchup against the Bucks crucial for their morale.
Bucks’ Strong Stand
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks are faring better with a 7-4 record. Despite speculation surrounding star player Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, the team has remained competitive. However, the Bucks will be without Antetokounmpo for the second consecutive game due to a knee injury.
Key Players to Watch
- Kon Knueppel: Leading all rookies with an average of 16.7 points per game, Knueppel is emerging as a bright spot for the Hornets.
- Ryan Rollins: The 23-year-old guard has elevated his game, averaging 16.5 points per game and shooting 51% from the field.
- Collin Sexton: Expected to lead the Hornets’ guards in this matchup, he will be pivotal in their gameplay.
Matchup Insights
The game is shaping up to be a battle of the guards. Without Giannis, the Bucks will lean on the performance of Rollins, Cole Anthony, and Gary Trent Jr. In their previous game without Giannis, the trio combined for a whopping 62 points against the Golden State Warriors.
Injury Report
| Team | Status | Players |
|---|---|---|
| Hornets | Probable | KJ Simpson (L AC Joint Sprain), Collin Sexton (R Ankle), Pat Connaughton (Illness) |
| Hornets | Questionable | Ryan Kalkbrenner (Personal) |
| Hornets | Out | Brandon Miller (L Shoulder), LaMelo Ball (R Ankle), Grant Williams (R Knee), Josh Green (L Shoulder) |
| Bucks | Out | Giannis Antetokounmpo (L Knee), Kevin Porter Jr (R Knee), Taurean Prince (Neck) |
Projected Lineups
| Position | Charlotte Hornets | Milwaukee Bucks |
|---|---|---|
| PG | Collin Sexton | Ryan Rollins |
| SG | Sion James | AJ Green |
| SF | Kon Knueppel | Gary Trent Jr |
| PF | Miles Bridges | Kyle Kuzma |
| C | Ryan Kalkbrenner | Myles Turner |
The Hornets hope to capitalize on their home advantage and find a way to secure a much-needed win against the Bucks. The performance of Knueppel and the rest of the team will be crucial in ending their losing streak.
