The Charlotte Hornets are working to keep their focus on the court despite numerous distractions. They will host the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night, hoping to end a two-game losing streak.
Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets absorbed a 102-97 home defeat against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday. Playing without key players LaMelo Ball (sprained right wrist) and Miles Bridges (lower back spasms), the Hornets struggled to find their rhythm. LaMelo Ball, who averages 29 points per game (fourth best in the NBA) along with 7.5 assists and 5.4 rebounds, has recently been the center of attention after not being named an All-Star starter. This decision has stirred some drama in Charlotte.
Cody Martin, listed as questionable due to groin tightness, played only five minutes in Friday’s game. Seth Curry, a crucial fill-in player for the Hornets, missed the game with a sprained right ankle.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans, fresh off a 139-126 road loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, ended their four-game winning streak. Despite leading 71-62 at halftime, they allowed 77 points in the second half. Dejounte Murray (right elbow bursitis) and Yves Missi (illness) played on Friday, with Murray contributing 26 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, and Missi adding 10 points and five rebounds in 30 minutes.
Jordan Hawkins emerged as a valuable player, scoring 20 points off the bench. Zion Williamson, who missed the last two games due to illness, may return against the Hornets.
The Pelicans are facing a challenging schedule with three road games in four nights. Their road record stands at 4-17.
Key Matchup
Charlotte center Mark Williams, who scored a career-best 38 points on Wednesday against Memphis but was held to 13 points on Friday, needs to ensure his defensive contributions remain strong even if his scoring fluctuates.
With both teams dealing with injuries and coming off tough losses, this matchup promises to be intense. The Hornets will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage, while the Pelicans aim to bounce back and improve their road record.
