Alex Hunter provides an insightful analysis and prediction for the upcoming game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Orlando Magic, set to take place Thursday in Charlotte.
The Hornets are entering the matchup with a record of 2-2 and are currently ranked 13th in net rating. They have demonstrated dominance in two relatively easy victories over the Nets and Wizards, but their two losses came at the hands of stronger opponents, notably the 76ers and Heat. The latter defeat, occurring just this past Tuesday, saw the Hornets falling short by a staggering 27 points.
Brandon Miller, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury, will miss his third consecutive game. His absence is significant; the Hornets have struggled without him, posting a 12-45 record in games where Miller has not played over the last two seasons. LaMelo Ball has stepped up remarkably in Miller’s absence, increasing his usage rate to 33.7% and delivering impressive performances, including a triple-double with 38 points, 13 rebounds, and 13 assists against the Wizards, followed by a strong showing of 20 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds against the Heat, despite limited playing time due to the blowout.
Offensively, the Hornets rank fourth in the league, supported by secondary scorers like Miles Bridges and Collin Sexton. However, problems remain on the defensive end, where they rank 21st, raising concerns about their ability to contain opponents. This will be particularly crucial as they face a struggling Orlando team, who just lost to the Pistons by 19 points the previous night.
The Magic, after trading four first-round picks to the Grizzlies for Desmond Bane, are off to a disappointing start, holding a 1-4 record and ranking 26th in net rating. The team has stumbled, dropping three straight games—all by double-digits—raising questions about their performance as they attempt to incorporate Bane, who has struggled to find his rhythm alongside key players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Orlando’s statistical struggles extend to their offensive and defensive ratings, as well as their assist-to-turnover ratio, leaving many fans disappointed with their season expectations.
Despite being a matchup that could help the Magic regain their footing, the back-to-back situation complicates their chances. Historically, Orlando has a mixed record when facing this scenario, with a 7-8 record over the past two seasons. Conversely, the Hornets will benefit from added rest since they last played on Tuesday, giving them a potentially advantageous position at home.
Given the current odds, the Hornets represent a tempting moneyline bet at +130 on DraftKings Sportsbook, offering hope for an upset as they aim to turn around their early season struggles. This matchup presents an opportunity for both teams to recalibrate, and with a careful examination of their strengths and weaknesses, it promises to be an intriguing spectacle for basketball fans.