WARRIORS VS HORNETS PREVIEW: As we head into this highly anticipated Warriors vs Hornets preview, the Golden State Warriors (32-28) continue their battle for playoff positioning, while the Charlotte Hornets (14-45) are in full rebuild mode.
Warriors vs Hornets Preview
Warriors vs Hornets Preview: As we head into this highly anticipated Warriors vs Hornets preview, the Golden State Warriors (32-28) continue their battle for playoff positioning, while the Charlotte Hornets (14-45) are in full rebuild mode. The Warriors sit seventh in the Western Conference, still within reach of a higher seed, whereas the Hornets are firmly near the bottom of the East, with little hope of making the Play-In Tournament.
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Recent Form: Warriors Seeking Redemption, Hornets in Freefall
Golden State is coming off a tough 126-119 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, a game where they struggled defensively despite Stephen Curry’s 32-point effort. The loss dropped them to 6-4 in their last ten games. However, they are expected to come out strong in this one, eager to bounce back and capitalize on Charlotte’s struggles.
The Hornets, meanwhile, are on a six-game losing streak and have gone just 2-8 in their last ten outings. Their most recent defeat came in an embarrassing 118-95 loss to the Indiana Pacers, where they shot just 38% from the field. Offense has been a major issue for Charlotte, as they rank near the bottom of the league in points per game (108.3).
Injury Report: Jimmy Butler Expected to Return for Golden State
One of the biggest factors in this matchup is the expected return of Jimmy Butler. The newly acquired star missed the last game due to back spasms but is listed as probable for this contest. Since joining the Warriors, Butler has averaged 16.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, providing much-needed versatility on both ends of the floor.
Charlotte, on the other hand, remains severely shorthanded. Brandon Miller (wrist injury) is still sidelined, further depleting an already struggling offense. Grant Williams remains out for the season due to an ACL tear, and Josh Okogie (hamstring strain) will also miss this game. These absences make it even tougher for the Hornets to stay competitive against a high-powered Warriors squad.
Betting Prediction: Warriors to Cover -12.5 Spread
Given the stark contrast in team performance, Golden State is favored by 12.5 points on the road, and for good reason. They have the offensive firepower to dismantle Charlotte’s weak defense, and with Butler likely back in the lineup, their depth will be too much for the injury-riddled Hornets to handle.
The Hornets have also been one of the worst teams against the spread this season (22-36-1 ATS), while the Warriors are 28-30-2 ATS but have covered in four of their last six games against sub-.500 teams.
Final Thoughts: Warriors Set to Dominate
With their sights set on bouncing back from a tough loss in Philly, Golden State should control this game from start to finish. The return of Butler provides another offensive weapon, while Charlotte’s struggles both offensively and defensively make it hard to see them keeping this close in this Warriors vs Hornets preview.
Best Bet: Warriors -12.5
Odds: -109
Stake: 5 units
