Celtics Face Hornets in Season Finale Amid Injuries

In the final regular-season game, the Charlotte Hornets faced the Boston Celtics, with both teams opting to rest key players. The Hornets, having secured one of the best odds for the upcoming NBA Draft, were missing LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges, while the Celtics rested their entire starting lineup, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, as they prepare for the playoffs. Despite a strong start, the Hornets lost significantly, clinching the third position for the draft lottery. The game served as an opportunity for younger players like Tidjane Salaün and Nick Smith Jr. to gain valuable experience. The Celtics, already locked in as the second seed, are focused on health and readiness for their playoff run. This matchup highlighted the contrasting trajectories of both franchises as they head into the offseason and playoffs, respectively.