Charlotte Hornets vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 07/04/2024, 05:50  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 07/04/2024 at 06:56 in NBA Predictions

The Charlotte Hornets will play host the the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Spectrum Center in the NBA on Sunday night. The hosts are 19-58 and 13th in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 52-25 and third in the Western Conference. 

The Charlotte Hornets have struggled all season and with only 19 wins to their name, they won't be part of the playoffs. They've endured a tough stretch, losing nine of their last 11 games. However, they managed to break a four-game losing streak with a 124-115 victory over the Magic at home on Friday. Brandon Miller led the charge with an impressive 32 points on 11 of 13 shooting, supported by Miles Bridges contributing 23 points along with six rebounds and four assists. Offensively, the Hornets have struggled, ranking 29th in the NBA with 106.3 points per game, while the Oklahoma City Thunder boast the 13th-ranked defense, allowing 113.4 points per game. Unfortunately, Charlotte's defensive performance hasn't been much better, allowing 116.5 points per game, placing them 21st overall in the league. The Hornets have seven players listed as doubtful for the upcoming game, including key names like LaMelo Ball, Amari Bailey, and Mark Williams.

On the other hand, the Oklahoma City Thunder have had a successful season, securing 52 wins and their place in the playoffs alongside the Nuggets and Timberwolves. However, they've faced some recent struggles, losing five of their last eight games. They’ll now aim to break a three-game losing streak after a tough 126-112 defeat to the Pacers on the road. Luguentz Dort led the Thunder in scoring with 22 points on 8 of 15 shooting, supported by Kenrich Williams contributing 18 points off the bench. Offensively, Oklahoma City ranks fourth in the NBA with an average of 119.8 points per game, just 3.3 points more than the 116.5 points the Hornets allow on average. Defensively, the Thunder allow 113.4 points per game, placing them 14th overall, although they have allowed an average of 123.3 points in their last three games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams are listed as doubtful for the upcoming match.