Charlotte Hornets (7-19) vs. LA Clippers (17-12)
Charlotte Hornets vs. LA Clippers 12/26/23 – As the NBA season heats up, Tuesday’s showdown between Charlotte Hornets and LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena promises to be an interesting premium game analysis. Charlotte Hornets boasts a dismal 7-19 record while LA Clippers has managed 17-12, setting this game against them as an interesting Eastern vs Western Conference battle. Tip-off time for this clash will be 10:30 PM ET tip-off time.
The Hornets have had an unimpressive season so far. While their offense averages an impressive 111 points per game on 47% field goal percentage and 35.5% three-point success, their defense has proven itself weak; often being unable to contain opponents effectively. LaMelo Ball, their key player, has provided hope as an average of 24.7 points and 8.2 assists per game despite these struggles of turning individual brilliance into team victories.
Contrastingly, the LA Clippers have been more consistent and effective. Averaging 117 points per game while boasting an improved field goal percentage (48.6%) than their counterparts in Charlotte, they have shown a balanced approach to offense and defense – Kawhi Leonard has been their star player averaging 24.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game; his leadership and experience has proven essential when facing high-stakes contests.
Charlotte Hornets vs. LA Clippers Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LaMelo Ball (PG) vs. Kawhi Leonard (SF)
LaMelo Ball is having an All-Star caliber season in his third year, averaging 24.7 points, 8.2 assists and 1.4 steals per game. He has shown improvement as a scorer and shooter. However, his high usage rate has led to nearly 4 turnovers per game. Ball’s defense also remains a work in progress.
Kawhi Leonard has played just five games this season but looked good in his last two games. When healthy, Leonard is one of the NBA’s top two-way players, an efficient scorer, and lockdown defender. He should boost the Clippers at both ends of the court. However, there are questions about Leonard’s health and minutes limit coming off an ACL injury.
This matchup will pit one of the game’s rising young stars versus a proven veteran. Ball needs a big game for the Hornets to have a chance, while Leonard’s presence makes the Clippers an even tougher matchup. Their duel could determine the game’s outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds and point spread for this game are yet to be determined. However, based on the teams’ current form and standings, the Clippers might be favored. Bettors should keep an eye on the evolving odds as the game approaches, considering factors such as team form, injuries, and recent head-to-head matchups.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
The Hornets have been terrible against the spread lately, covering just once in their last six games. They have also gone under the total in four straight. Charlotte has been a disappointment all season, especially on the road where they are just 4-8 against the spread. Backing the Hornets right now is ill-advised given their downward trajectory.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
Unlike the Hornets, the Clippers have rewarded bettors this year with a 17-12-1 record against the spread. They have been particularly strong at home, going 11-3 against the spread at Crypto.com Arena. The Clippers have also gone over the total in four of their last five. Ride LA’s hot streak on Tuesday.
Charlotte Hornets vs. LA Clippers 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Considering the current form and stats, the Clippers seem to be the safer bet. Their balanced attack and solid defense, led by Leonard, give them an edge over the Hornets. However, the unpredictable nature of the NBA means upsets are always a possibility, especially with a talent like Ball for the Hornets.
In terms of NBA free picks, a bet on the Clippers to win seems reasonable, with a potential lean towards the over on total points, given both teams’ recent trends. The exact score prediction is tricky without the final odds, but expect a competitive game with the Clippers likely coming out on top.
Free Pick and Prediction: LA Clippers 118, Charlotte Hornets 101