Although the Charlotte Hornets are 32-41 and are 6.0 games behind the Milwaukee Bucks for the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference heading into Friday, they apparently won’t quit until they’re mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.On Wednesday, Dwight Howard enjoyed a historic 32-point, 30-rebound performance to help guide the Hornets to a victory over the Brooklyn Nets. But, in the process, he picked up his 16th technical foul of the season, thus earning him a suspension for Thursday night’s contest against the Memphis Grizzlies.Therefore, it was the responsibility of All-Star point guard Kemba Walker to step up even more than he has been doing lately. And boy, did he answer the call in a gigantic way.En route to an absurd 140-79 victory, Walker needed just 28 minutes to score 46 points. Shooting 13-of-18 overall, he went 10-for-14 from three-point range and also managed to go 10-for-10 from the free throw line.He had 35 points by halftime of the lopsided contest. The entire Grizzlies team had 42.

As you might imagine, not many NBA players have converted 10 threes and 10 free throws in a single game. In fact, only two other players in league history have accomplished the feat.

On the surface, it may seem like the Grizzlies defense simply wasn’t trying to defend Walker. After all, they're one of the worst teams in the league with seemingly nothing to play for at the moment. But, that wasn’t the case. He was simply unconscious, knocking down contested shot after contested shot. In fact, all but one of his converted threes was contested.

That fact made his night even more impressive.

Charlotte made a major statement on Thursday night, posting the sixth-largest win in NBA history.

Although Walker and the Hornets most likely won’t find themselves in the playoffs this season, a performance like Thursday’s reminded everyone just how talented he is. With one more year left on his current contract, the All-Star is making the case for a maximum extension with the Hornets or a max offer elsewhere.

Listen HERE to the first episode of the new GiveMeSport NBA podcast, featuring former Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager David Griffin.

Charlotte has nine games remaining on their schedule. Walker and company's next contest will take place on Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks. Since they’re in must-win mode, expect the point guard to put forth another strong effort in the hopes of earning a miraculous playoff bid that would require a massive collapse by the Bucks.