Roster Rundown
Charlotte Hornets hit the floor with LaMelo Ball, who's been their shining beacon, averaging 23.5 points and 8.7 assists per game this season. The guard's court vision and playmaking abilities remain pivotal. Miles Bridges, returning to form, contributes a solid 19.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, adding a robust presence on both ends. Cody Martin, often overlooked, plays a crucial role off the bench, bringing energy and defensive grit. Meanwhile, Mark Williams anchors the paint with 9.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks, ensuring the Hornets have a defensive backbone. Notably absent for this game are Seth Curry and Nick Smith due to injuries, leaving gaps in shooting and depth.
Sacramento Kings, led by De'Aaron Fox, boast an offensive juggernaut, averaging 25.2 points and 6.3 assists. Domantas Sabonis, a double-double machine, records 19.8 points and 12.4 rebounds, dominating the boards. Keegan Murray, the rising star, adds versatility with 14.6 points and 5.7 rebounds. Malik Monk, the spark plug off the bench, contributes quick scoring bursts, netting 13.5 points per outing. They miss Doug McDermott and Keon Ellis, sidelined with injuries, affecting their perimeter shooting depth.
Head-to-Head
Charlotte Hornets 105-98
Sacramento Kings [15 Dec 2024]
Sacramento Kings 112-110
Charlotte Hornets [18 Jan 2024]
Charlotte Hornets 98-95
Sacramento Kings [28 Feb 2023]
Recent Form
Charlotte Hornets:
- Lost to Indiana Pacers 119-105
- Won against Utah Jazz 110-106
- Lost to New Orleans Pelicans 98-94
- Lost to Toronto Raptors 108-97
- Lost to Orlando Magic 111-104
Sacramento Kings:
- Lost to Washington Wizards 116-111
- Lost to Indiana Pacers 111-109
- Lost to Orlando Magic 121-91
- Won against Portland Trail Blazers 128-107
- Lost to Oklahoma City Thunder 121-105
Wrap-Up
Hornets, finding stride with Ball's leadership, face off against Kings' powerhouse offense. Both teams plagued by injuries, though Hornets face a steeper climb without Curry and Smith. Kings struggle lately, dropping four of last five. Sabonis and Fox need to step up. Hornets' defense, anchored by Williams, must stifle Kings' threats. Not much room for error—Hornets need to tighten defense. Kings, on other hand, might just rely heavily on offense to carry the day.
Summary
With both teams grappling with recent losses and injury woes, this matchup could swing either way. Hornets' recent struggles and absentees might tip balance towards Kings, who, despite their own issues, have firepower to edge out a win. Fox and Sabonis could be too much to handle if they find their rhythm. Yet, if Hornets' Ball and Bridges get hot, it could be anyone’s game. Expect a close one—Kings might just have slight edge based on recent form and head-to-head success.
Match Odds Charlotte Hornets – Sacramento Kings
Leon's odds are 14.5 on Charlotte Hornets winning on their territory.
At this moment our odds are equal to - on Sacramento Kings visiting team's winning.
