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What: Charlotte Hornets (17-17) at Washington Wizards (13-23)
When: 7:00 p.m. EST
Where: Capital One Arena; Washington D.C.
How to watch: Fox Sports Southeast, NBA League Pass
The Charlotte Hornets are coming off a solid win against the Nets where they never trailed. Jeremy Lamb, Kemba Walker, and Tony Parker took turns taking over the game for stretches. It was a strong bounce back after a double overtime loss to that same Nets team just two days prior.
There is no time to bask in the victory, however. The Hornets hopped on a plane en route to the nation’s capital straight after the game.
The Washington Wizards are playing their second game in as many nights too. Last night they fell 101-92 to the Chicago Bulls, their fifth loss in six games. Their only win during that stretch came in a 149-146 triple overtime thriller against the basement-dwelling Phoenix Suns. The Wizards have failed to top 95 points in any of the three games since.
The Wizards sport the league’s 20th best offense and its 28th best defense. They’ve played poorly all season, and now injuries are compounding the problem. Starting point guard John Wall has been in and out of the lineup at different points this season, and he’s out tonight as he sees a specialist in regards to his heel injury. Otto Porter is also out with a knee injury, and former Hornet Dwight Howard remains out with a gluteal (butt) injury.
Bradley Beal has done all he can to keep the ship afloat, averaging 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Second year pro Thomas Bryant is also starting to emerge as a difference maker. He went 14 for 14 from the field in the aforementioned triple overtime win over the Suns as part of a five game stretch that’s seen the former Hooiser average 14.6 points and 7.0 rebounds while shooting 78.4% from the field.
Road wins have been tough to come by for the Hornets this season. The Wizards are just 9-7 at home, and they’re reeling. This is a great opportunity for the Hornets to build some road mojo.