The New York Knicks opened their preseason on October 5 with a 111-109 win over the Charlotte Hornets. New additions Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Landry Shamet debuted in orange and blue, while Deuce McBride led the team from the bench with 22 points. After a slow start, the Knicks' second unit -- including that dime dealer Tyler Kolek -- mounted a comeback in the second half (with help from Duane Washington, Jr., bricking three freebies with 1 second on the clock).

Since then, both teams have won twice. The Knicks beat the Wizards and the Wolves, while the Hornets defeated the Heat and the Grizz.

The new look Knicks are gradually starting to gel, with the starters showing more cohesiveness in the recent contests. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller continue to lead the way for the young Charlotte squad.

The Hornets have had four days off, so we may see Cody Martin and Nick Smith Jr. make preseason debuts, if recovered from their injuries. Center Mark Williams remains out until the start of the season, so look for Nick Richards to play in his stead tonight. Ball and small forward Josh Green were held out of the Memphis game but should be in action. And Miles Bridges continues to play professional basketball.

The Hornets can be a boisterous bunch and will be looking for revenge after their narrow loss to the Knicks. New York surpasses them in talent by a miiillle, though. Tonight's game should be competitive, with our heroes pulling away down the stretch. Knicks by +8.