Boston Celtics vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions April 11th 2025

With the playoffs just around the corner, the Boston Celtics are locking in their final preparations. They’ll finish off the regular season with a two-game home stand against the Charlotte Hornets, a matchup marked more by maintenance than momentum.

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Celtics Secure No. 2 Seed: Rest Over Records

The Celtics (59-21) have nothing left to prove in the regular season standings. Their position as the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference is set in stone. With the postseason in mind, Boston took a strategic step back on Wednesday, resting six key players — Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford — in a 96-76 loss to the Orlando Magic.

That decision came after a gritty 119-117 overtime win against the New York Knicks the night before. The team’s schedule had them arriving in Orlando at 4:30 a.m., contributing to sluggish shooting and tired legs.

Joe Mazzulla Stresses Fatigue, Not Failure

Head coach Joe Mazzulla defended the decision to prioritize rest over results.

“We got to the hotel (in Orlando) at 4:30 in the morning,” he said. “You can be frustrated with the result, but it’s part of the process.”

Boston’s stat line confirmed the toll of travel and fatigue: 16 turnovers, a 17.5% clip from three (7-of-40), and their lowest scoring output of the season.

Pritchard: “Fatigue is real, but it’s no excuse”

Backup guard Payton Pritchard acknowledged the challenges but emphasized accountability.

“Sleep plays a part in fatigue… It’s not easy, but it’s also not an excuse. You have to find ways to win.”

Hornets Shift Focus to the Future

Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets (19-61) find themselves looking past the season finale. Having been eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, their remaining games serve more as auditions for their young talent and opportunities to improve NBA Draft lottery odds.

Despite a five-game losing streak and seven straight losses on the road, Charlotte saw a spark in rookie Nick Smith Jr. during their 126-96 loss to the Toronto Raptors. Smith notched 28 points and 10 rebounds, showing poise and versatility.

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Coach Charles Lee Praises Smith’s All-Around Impact

“(Smith) did it in a lot of different ways… Defensively, rebounding, making the right reads — I loved everything he gave us,” said Lee.

Smith’s season averages of 9.9 points and 2.1 rebounds don’t tell the whole story. His performance against Toronto showcased his growth and ability to adapt, especially when driving the lane or making smart extra passes.

Head-to-Head History Favors Boston

The Celtics and Hornets have already squared off twice this season — both in Charlotte — with Boston claiming back-to-back wins:

• Nov. 1: Celtics 124, Hornets 109
• Nov. 2: Celtics 113, Hornets 103

Now, the final two games of the regular season shift to Boston, with Friday’s matchup serving as a test of rhythm for the Celtics and a trial run for Charlotte’s young core.

Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake?

For Boston:

• Maintaining rhythm while avoiding injuries.
• Keeping players fresh for the playoffs.
• Solidifying bench roles and defensive schemes.

For Charlotte:

• Developing chemistry among young players.
• Evaluating offseason needs.
• Maximizing lottery potential.

Upcoming Games

Final Thoughts

As Boston braces for a deep playoff run and Charlotte looks to rebuild, these final games serve vastly different purposes. The Celtics are prioritizing rest, rhythm, and readiness, while the Hornets are testing their young core and planning ahead.

Fans can expect a blend of developmental basketball and strategic tuning, with each team playing their role in closing the 2024 NBA regular season.