Charlotte Hornets vs New Orleans Pelicans: Analysis and Prediction – Charlotte Hornets will host New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA.
Charlotte Hornets vs New Orleans Pelicans Odds
Charlotte Hornets Team News
The Charlotte Hornets lost their second game to the Miami Heat in just three days on Wednesday night, further deteriorating their record to 7-15. If things don’t turn around soon, a place in the play-in will remain out of reach.
It seemed like the Hornets were making progress and on the right path under head coach James Borrego, but since his departure from the franchise, nothing positive has happened for them. LaMelo Ball has been struggling with injuries for two seasons, a significant reason for their poor results. While Gordon Hayward averages around 15 points, it doesn’t reflect his performance compared to his time with the Utah Jazz. Terry Rozier is currently the shining star, but the fact that he is the Hornets’ best player speaks volumes about their current situation.
Until Ball and other injured players return, the Charlotte Hornets will struggle against teams with positive records in the NBA. Their defense is soft, and they are not finding the best solutions in the offense.
New Orleans Pelicans Team News
The New Orleans Pelicans have bounced back with three wins in their last four games, bringing their record to 14-11. Particularly impressive was their victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves, showing that Willie Green’s team can compete with the best in the league.
The Pelicans are playing better since C.J. McCollum rejoined the team. Jonas Valanciunas is having a solid season, and Brandon Ingram is performing at his usual level. Zion Williamson is still unable to go through a year without significant injuries, and his health largely determines whether the Pelicans can reach the playoffs this season or not. Anything below that will be another disappointing campaign and possibly a precursor to certain changes.
To make the playoffs, the New Orleans Pelicans must defeat the weakest teams in the league, and the Charlotte Hornets fall into that category, especially in this situation without Ball, who is a crucial figure for the franchise from North Carolina.
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Charlotte Hornets vs New Orleans Pelicans H2H
Last season, the New Orleans Pelicans won both games against the Charlotte Hornets, and this will be their first encounter this season.
Absences and Injuries
LaMelo Ball is injured and will not play for the Charlotte Hornets. PJ Washington, Mark Williams and Cody Martin are questionable. Larry Nance and Matt Ryan are sidelined for the New Orleans Pelicans, while Zion Williamson is game time decision.
Charlotte Hornets vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction
The Charlotte Hornets have won three of their last five home games, and in losses to the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves, they were close until the end. The New Orleans Pelicans are in good form, and it’s realistic to expect them to continue in this rhythm in this road game. However, we believe the home team can stay competitive until the end, even if they lose.
Tip-off Time: Saturday, 16.12.2023, 01:00 CET
Prediction: Charlotte Hornets +7.5
Odds: 1.90
Sportsbook: 22Bet
*Odds are active at the time the article is published
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