5 games Hornets should circle after schedule release

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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 16: Assistant coach Kenny Atkinson of the Golden State Warriors reacts against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 16, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

10/29 – Charlotte Hornets vs. Golden State Warriors

The defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors visit town just 10 days after the season begins. This also marks Charlotte native and former Davidson Wildcats point guard Stephen Curry’s annual visit to the Queen City. However, beyond the excitement of a game against the defending champions and an appearance from one of the game’s greatest players, this year’s version will have an extra layer of intrigue in the form of Kenny Atkinson.

Atkinson was reported to have accepted the Hornets head coaching position on June 10th, while the Warriors were in the midst of capturing the NBA title against the Boston Celtics. However, he reneged on that agreement on June 18th after the Warriors had captured the title. While Atkinson certainly has the right to remain in his current situation, the manner in which it all unfolded was less than ideal, with the Hornets reportedly hearing the news via Twitter.

🚨CONFIRMED: Kenny Atkinson decides he will NOT become the Hornets head coach. He will remain an assistant with the Warriors. (@wojespn had it first.)

I’m told several people with the Hornets learned the news via Twitter.
— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelFOX) June 18, 2022

The Hornets have had success against the Warriors in Charlotte as of late, winning the last three meetings at the Spectrum Center. The last two meetings in Charlotte have been decided by a total of six points. Interestingly, the all-time series is tied at 32 games apiece; Charlotte is just one of four current franchises with a .500 or better record against the Warriors, joining the Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls, and Orlando Magic.

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