Hornets wrap up injury plagued season in Boston

The season’s end has arrived, and while Sunday’s matchup between the Charlotte Hornets and the Boston Celtics at TD Garden may not carry playoff weight, it still holds value—for fans, fringe players, and the future.

Don’t let the stakes fool you—there’s still something on the line.

Despite a long, injury-riddled season that has Charlotte (19-62) sitting second-to-last in the East, this final game offers one last look at the young talent trying to carve out a spot for next season. For Celtics fans, it’s a rest day. For Hornets faithful? It’s an audition.

With LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller all out, and Grant Williams, Tre Mann, and Mark Williams also sidelined, the stage is clear for lesser-used players to step up. Nick Smith Jr., if cleared to play, could get heavy minutes—he’s shown flashes this season, averaging 13.5 points in his last two starts. JT Thor and Amari Bailey may also get extended run. This is a chance for Charlotte’s bench to prove they belong in the long-term rotation.

Boston (63-18) is resting nearly every major contributor—Tatum, Brown, Porzingis, White, Holiday, and Horford are all out. That means Charlotte won’t be facing the championship contenders but rather a mix of reserves and G-League call-ups. Still, Boston’s system is disciplined, and their bench is deep. For the Hornets, it’s a test of execution, not star power.

While this game won’t impact standings, it’s an opportunity to experiment. Expect Charles Lee to tweak lineups and give younger players creative freedom. With the NBA Draft and offseason moves looming, today’s game may influence decisions in the front office.

No, this isn’t a marquee matchup—but for Hornets fans, it’s a window into what comes next. Tune in not for the scoreboard, but for the spark.