Phoenix SunsOpen full analysis
Charlotte HornetsOpen full analysis
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Phoenix Suns 127–107 on April 2 at Spectrum Center, controlling the matchup through balanced scoring and defensive intensity. Miles Bridges led Charlotte with 25 points, while K. Knueppel added 20, as the Hornets shot 51.6 percent from the field and made 18 three-pointers to stay well below the Vegas total of 227.5. Phoenix's Jalen Green and Devin Booker each scored 25 and 22 points respectively, but the Suns managed only 46.2 percent shooting and committed 12 turnovers compared to Charlotte's 10. The decisive stretch came in the second quarter, when Phoenix collapsed offensively, scoring just 19 points after a strong 41-point opening frame, while the Hornets maintained offensive rhythm with 33 points in that same period. Charlotte's defense held a 128.8 rating while generating 7 steals, exploiting Phoenix's offensive inconsistency throughout. The loss marks another stumble for the Suns, who struggled to establish rhythm outside the first quarter and fell behind the Hornets in the playoff positioning race.
