NBA Power Rankings: Spurs, Warriors Prepare For Second-Round Test In Playoffs

Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) steals the ball from Memphis Grizzlies guard Jordan Farmar (3) as guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) steals the ball from Memphis Grizzlies guard Jordan Farmar (3) as guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 23, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) reacts after scoring during the second half in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) reacts after scoring during the second half in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

11. Charlotte Hornets (1-2)

The injury to Nicolas Batum was a real shame for the Charlotte Hornets, which is the biggest reason why they’re not higher on this list. If he can’t return, this is going to be a difficult series for them to pull off, unless the Miami Heat continue to shoot 33 percent from the field.

Nevertheless, it was impressive and admirable to see the Hornets comeback with a strong Game 3 performance with their backs against the wall. Going home often does that for playoff teams. Perhaps even more impressive, it was nice to see Frank Kaminsky has his moment in Game 3.

After an up and down rookie season, and the constant comparison to Justise Winslow, Myles Turner and Devin Booker, it was a breath of fresh air to see Kaminsky have his moment in the sun.

Overall, this team has a huge opportunity on its hands in Game 4. They can change the narrative of their series against the Miami Heat with one more victory.

Next: Indiana Pacers