New York is well-advised to be on the alert, this looks a potential flat spot after the blowout win over the Magic at MSG two nights ago. The Hornets hit Manhattan riding a seven-game losing streak, but most of the setbacks have been highly competitive, including a narrow 99-98 loss to the Knicks at the Bee Hive last Friday. Charlotte hung tough despite mere 40% FG shooting and suffering from injury absences, including LaMelo Ball, who had scored better than 40 pg across his previous four outings. Note the Hornets have continued to compete hard even minus Ball (calf strain), haven't lost a game by more than 14 since a Nov. 12 setback at Orlando, and are an overachieving 10-4 their last 14 vs. the number. Play Hornets