Charlotte Hornets (8-28) vs. New Orleans Pelicans (24-16)
Charlotte Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans 1/17/24 – As the NBA season moves forward, an exciting matchup awaits between Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday at Smoothie King Center. Fans and bettors are eagerly awaiting this thrilling clash of fortunes between Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans. Fans and bettors alike are closely following all NBA picks today for this matchup which promises an intriguing clash.
Charlotte Hornets have shown signs of promise despite their disappointing record, averaging 108.9 points per game with an impressive field goal percentage of 45.9% and 3-point shooting at 35.9% for an effective free throw percentage of 79.3%. In addition, they average 41.1 rebounds and 24.9 assists per game which shows their ability to create scoring opportunities while their defense must tighten up significantly, as evidenced by only 6.7 steals and 4.8 blocks per game with turnovers and fouls totalling 13.2 and 19.4 respectively being areas that need attention.
On the other side of things are the New Orleans Pelicans; their record speaks for itself. Averaging 116.4 points per game with 48.7% field goal accuracy, 38.3% 3-point shooting accuracy and 76.6% free throw percentage free throws percentage free throw shooting accuracy respectively; they outshone Charlotte Hornets with more rebounds (44.3 per game), assists (26.9) and turnovers (12.8) than usual which suggests better control in their gameplay.
Charlotte Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans 1/17/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Smoothie King Center |
| TV: | BSNO |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LaMelo Ball (PG) vs. Zion Williamson (PF)
LaMelo Ball stands out amongst his Hornets’ overall struggles for his exceptional season. Averaging 24.9 points and 8 assists per game over 16 games, he’s been at the core of their offense, providing playmaking that stands out while his 4.1 turnovers per game indicate room for improvement in control. Ball’s agility and scoring ability make him a key figure that could easily change game outcomes for Charlotte.
Zion Williamson of the Pelicans offers an alternative style. Over 32 games he averaged 22 points and 5.9 rebounds on an efficiency-oriented play style; creating opportunities for himself and teammates is something which he excelled at as an asset to his team.
Ball and Williamson will battle it out for supremacy at every point during the game, pitting their quickness and offensive skills against Williamson’s defense and physicality against Ball’s defensive capabilities. Their duel could determine its path; each must find ways to leverage each other’s weaknesses while capitalizing on strengths for maximum effect.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds, still to be finalized, will be crucial for bettors and fans. Given the Pelicans’ superior record and home advantage, they might emerge as favorites. However, the unpredictable nature of NBA games leaves room for the Hornets to surprise as underdogs.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
The Hornets have recently struggled to find consistency. Over their last five games and against the spread, they are 1-5. Their road game performance against the spread (7-12) highlights their difficulties away from home while only 1 of their last 5 totals has gone OVER while 8 of 17 home games have seen higher scoring indicating fluctuation of offensive output.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
The Pelicans have displayed more consistent play lately, going 3-2 in their last five games and matching that record against the spread. On their travels (11-8 against), their road games proved stronger while 2 of their last 5 and 9 of 20 home games have seen totals go OVER thus indicating high scoring contests between opponents.
Charlotte Hornets vs. New Orleans Pelicans 1/17/24 Betting Picks
Considered in terms of statistics and trends, the Pelicans appear to be ahead in this matchup due to their balanced and efficient gameplay. That being said, LaMelo Ball’s performance will be vital for Charlotte while Zion Williamson will likely provide dominating physical play as well as scoring efficiency for New Orleans.
Bettor may prefer betting on the Pelicans due to their superior record and home advantage; however, bettors could consider backing Charlotte Hornets given their underdog status which often results in unexpected performances – making this game potentially unpredictable!
Multi-handicapper tips typically favor the Pelicans to win straight up, given their steady performance. But considering Charlotte Hornets’ potential for an upset and their desperate need to end their losing streak, they could cover the spread if set generously in their favor.
Free Pick and Prediction: New Orleans Pelicans 115, Charlotte Hornets 108.