Charlotte Hornets

Charlotte Hornets (18-18) continue to silence critics and, from being considered one of the underdogs before the season, are currently ranked 6th in the Eastern Conference standings. Before the season, there were many questions about the high-value contract signed with G. Hayward and the drafting of L. Ball, but the team has answered these questions by demonstrating excellent play. Both Hayward and Ball quickly became team leaders, and T. Rozier, who stayed with the team from last season, is increasingly shining this season.

Indeed, the Charlotte Hornets are gradually becoming serious contenders for higher playoff spots from being one of the league's worst teams. The Hornets have won 5 of their last 6 home games. Although none of the defeated teams are currently in the top 1-8 spots in the conferences, playing in this league requires competing with all teams, and there are no easy victories.

The main component of the Hornets' victories is excellent team offense, thanks to which the Hornets average just over 112 points per game in their last 10 home games. This team does not shine with good defense, but in the regular season, victories can also be achieved with better offense, as many NBA teams have successfully proven over the years. Since several important players will not play for the Raptors tonight, it should be easier for the Hornets' starting players to play, so an impressive performance by one of the team's leaders would not be surprising at all.

Toronto Raptors

The Toronto Raptors (17-20) have been looking worse with each season since K. Leonard's departure, and it would not be surprising at all if we see the team rebuilding soon. There are ongoing talks about possible trade scenarios for K. Lowry, especially since F. VanVleet looks much more stable and confident this season than the former team leader and league veteran. The Toronto Raptors have been playing very inconsistently this season – a poor start to the season was followed by a good series and an even win/loss ratio, but recently the team has fallen into a slump again. The Raptors have suffered 5 losses in their last 6 games, including a 24-point loss to one of the underdogs, the Detroit Pistons.

In addition to the poor recent game statistics, the Raptors are plagued by injury problems. It is already clear that OG Anunoby, P. McCaw, P. Siakam, and F. VanVleet will not help the team in tonight's game. Realistically, the team will play tonight without 3 players who usually spend over 30 minutes on the court, with both Siakam and VanVleet considered among the team's leaders.

Tonight, K. Lowry and N. Powell, who has been showing good form recently, will take most of the initiative for the Toronto team, but it is a big question whether these players alone will be enough to secure a victory in Charlotte.

Prediction

After discussing the situation of both teams, the picture is quite clear – one team will step into the match “on a good wave,” while the other is completely lost and plagued by injuries. Of course, it is not for nothing that the NBA league is said to be “Where amazing happens,” but in this match, the clear favorite to win is the Charlotte Hornets team. The bookmakers' offered odds possibly show a bit too much respect for the Raptors team, as the Hornets deserve to be more than a 2.5-point favorite.