The Charlotte Hornets certainly don't need a late-season slump, but there might be time to reverse a recent trend.
It could be getting too late for the Chicago Bulls.
The teams are set to meet Thursday night in Chicago.
The Hornets (28-29) have dipped below .500 by losing five of their pastsix games. They are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference.
The Bulls (24-34) are clinging to playoff aspirations. They're 12th in the East.
"We don't really have a big margin for error as a team," Chicago coach Billy Donovan said.
Charlotte's injuries have taken a toll.