CHARLOTTE, N.C. _ Apparently acknowledging the playoffs are a remote possibility, Charlotte Hornets coach James Borrego went with the kids Thursday, but it ended in a victory.
The Hornets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves at home, 113-106, breaking a two-game losing streak. Borrego's revised rotation included starting second-year pro Dwayne Bacon ahead of Nic Batum and heavy minutes for youngsters Malik Monk, Devonte Graham and Willy Hernangomez.
Borrego gave no indication before the game of a shakeup in the rotation. Batum had started every previous game he was available for this season.
All-Star point guard Kemba Walker led the Hornets with 31 points and rookie Miles Bridges added 11 points and 12 rebounds. The Hornets (32-39) took a severe blow to their playoff chances in a Sunday road loss to the Miami Heat, then lost at home Tuesday to the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Timberwolves fell to 32-40. Center Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 21 points and 16 rebounds, while Andrew Wiggins added 20 points.
