The Charlotte Hornets gave the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers hell on Friday, ending two factors shy of pulling one of many greatest upsets of the NBA season.
That meant the Nets, who entered Saturday’s matchup at Spectrum Middle on a six-game shedding streak, knew they’d be in for a struggle — even when star guard LaMelo Ball was sidelined due to a proper ankle damage.
The Nets led 58-43 at halftime, have been up 82-76 coming into the fourth quarter, however couldn’t end. Charlotte ended the sport on a 22-5 run over the ultimate 7:09 to finish its nine-game shedding streak and lengthen Brooklyn’s to seven.
The 105-102 loss ruined what was certainly one of D’Angelo Russell’s finest performances of the season. He performed like a person possessed, ending with 28 factors, six rebounds and 7 assists in 29 minutes.
When the Hornets reduce it to 4 with 11:17 left, Russell responded with two and-ones and a transition 3 to maintain them at arm’s size. The veteran guard scored the Nets’ first 15 factors within the closing body, which pushed their result in 14 with 7:09 left, however Charlotte refused to go away.
Cam Thomas obtained rejected by Miles Bridges on a possible game-winner. From there, the Hornets closed it out on the free throw line.
The Nets fell to 21-42 with the loss. Cam Johnson missed Saturday’s recreation due to left knee soreness.
Thomas was Brooklyn’s second-leading scorer, ending with 16 factors on 7-for-18 taking pictures. The Hornets shot 52.4% within the fourth quarter and compelled six turnovers, which gave them an additional 12 factors.
The Nets will return to motion on Monday in opposition to the Los Angeles Lakers at Barclays Middle.
Initially Printed: March 8, 2025 at 8:47 PM EST
