Philadelphia 76ers (26-13) vs. Charlotte Hornets (8-30)
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets 1/20/24 – As the NBA season heats up, the Philadelphia 76ers, boasting an impressive 26-13 record, are set to clash with the struggling Charlotte Hornets, who sit at a concerning 8-30. This matchup, scheduled for Saturday, is stirring up considerable interest among fans and bettors alike. The game, set to unfold at the Spectrum Center, making it a prime target for NBA picks today. This game presents an intriguing contrast in momentum and talent, with the 76ers looking to solidify their strong standing, while the Hornets aim to upset the odds and turn their season around.
Philadelphia 76ers enter this game with an impressive record. Averaging an astounding 119.9 points per game, their dynamic offense has proven difficult for opponents to contain. Field goal percentage is 47.6% while 3-point shooting success stands at 37.3% of attempts. Furthermore, they average 43.6 rebounds per game on offense and 9.1 steals and 6.2 blocks on defense – providing an all-encompassing threat on both ends of the court.
However, Charlotte Hornets have shown flashes of promise despite their disappointing record. Averaging 108.3 points per game on 45.6% shooting accuracy makes them competitive offensively when at their best; similarly they match Philadelphia in offensive rebound average at 10.9 per game; yet their defensive game has proven less efficient, as evidenced by more turnovers per game (13.2) than their counterparts (11.7).
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets 1/20/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Spectrum Center |
| TV: | BSSE |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Joel Embiid (C) vs. LaMelo Ball (PG)
Joel Embiid has inserted himself into the MVP discussion by stuffing the stat sheet on a nightly basis. Through 29 games, he’s averaging 35.1 points on 53.2% shooting along with 11.6 rebounds and 6.1 assists. Embiid uses his frame to bully opponents down low, while also having the ability to stretch the defense with his perimeter shooting. He’s attempting 4.1 threes per game this season, converting at a 33.7% clip. Embiid excels at getting to the foul line as well, averaging 11.3 free throw attempts. His overall offensive rating stands at a staggering 121.5. He could be in line for another monster performance against a poor Charlotte interior defense that allows the 4th most points in the paint.
LaMelo Ball continues to establish himself as a future perennial All-Star in year three of his young career. Through 17 games, he’s stuffing the stat sheet by averaging 24.6 points on 45.7% shooting to go along with 5.6 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 1.7 steals. Ball has rare playmaking ability for his size that allows him to generate open looks for himself and teammates. He’s excelled in the pick and roll this season, scoring 0.99 points per possession including 44.4% from three point range. Ball has also improved tremendously as an isolation scorer, averaging 1.05 points per isolation possession. He’ll need to utilize his full versatile skill set to match the firepower Embiid brings to the table.
This matchup pits two talented players at different stages of their careers. Embiid should be able to exploit his significant size advantage inside against the smaller Ball, while Ball will look to use his craftiness and court vision to set up open perimeter shots for himself and teammates. This battle could go a long way in determining the game’s outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are currently TBD, but given the records and performances, the 76ers are likely to be the favorites. The point spread and moneyline will offer insights into how oddsmakers view the potential competitiveness of this game.
Philadelphia 76ers Betting Trends
The Philadelphia 76ers have posted three consecutive wins and an even record against the spread over their last five games, both showing strong road game strength against the spread (10-7). Three out of their last five home totals went over, providing evidence of high-scoring affairs that can provide opportunities for over/under bettors.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
The Hornets, on the other hand, have struggled mightily over their last five games and against the spread as well. Their road game record against the spread (7-13) highlights their difficulty while only 1 out of their last 5 totals went over, indicative of difficulty keeping pace in high-scoring matches.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets 1/20/24 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and trends, the Philadelphia 76ers appear to be the stronger team and a safer bet. Their offensive firepower and defensive solidity give them an edge over the struggling Hornets. For prop bets, focusing on Embiid’s scoring and rebounding could be a wise choice, given his dominant season.
As for the Hornets, LaMelo Ball’s individual performance might be a good target for prop bets. The top multi-handicapper picks are likely to favor the 76ers, especially considering the Hornets’ recent form. For the over/under, given the 76ers’ high-scoring games and the Hornets’ struggles, betting on the over might be a prudent choice.
Free Pick and Prediction: Philadelphia 76ers 120, Charlotte Hornets 105.