NBA Late-Season Chaos & Playoffs
Key Questions
How did the Charlotte Hornets clinch the 9th seed?
The Hornets defeated the New York Knicks 110-96, securing the 9th seed in the playoffs. LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Coby White each scored exactly 19 points against a depleted Knicks roster. They now face the Heat in the play-in tournament.
What are the key developments in the late NBA playoff race?
The playoff races are tightening with the Hornets clinching 9th, Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs surging late, and the Grizzlies imploding. A Philly-Orlando playoff preview highlights Embiid's absence for Philadelphia. The situation remains developing.
Who is predicted as NBA Rookie of the Year in recent analysis?
Analysis claims Kon Knueppel is the NBA Rookie of the Year based on numbers, ahead of Cooper Flagg. The Charlotte Hornets' last season-long award winner was LaMelo Ball, who won Rookie of the Year in 2020-21.
Hornets clinch 9th seed (beat Knicks, play-in Heat); Wembanyama Spurs surge; Grizzlies implode; Philly-Orlando preview (Embiid out). Playoff races tighten.