Hornets Look to Get Back on Track in Philadelphia

INJURY REPORT: 

HORNETS: OUT - LaMelo Ball (Ankle), Mark Williams (Back), Cody Martin (Ankle), Seth Curry (Ankle), Bryce McGowens (Knee) 

76ERS: QUESTIONABLE - Tobias Harris (Ankle), OUT -Robert Covington (Knee), Joel Embiid (Knee), De'Anthony Melton (Back) 

GAME PREVIEW

The Hornets are coming off a 107-96 loss to the Phoenix Suns last night, falling to 17-50 on the season. The Hornets have failed to score over 100 points in seven out of the last 12 games. The offense is still bleak without LaMelo Ball, who may not return to the court this season. 

The 76ers are coming into this game hanging on by a thread, having lost five out of the last six games. As well, in the last six games the 76ers have failed to score over 110 points, which is certainly the effect of not having Joel Embiid. The 76ers have dropped down to 8th in the Eastern Conference standings. 

The Sixers have won all three contests against the Hornets so far this season and have won their last five against Charlotte. The Hornets' last road win in Philadelphia came on January 12, 2022. 

One of the few positives from the Hornets dealing with so many injuries is that it has opened up opportunities for guys that otherwise would be buried on the bench. 30-year-old rookie Vasilije Micic is taking full advantage of his opportunity, averaging 16.1 points per game, along with 6.0 assists, while shooting 51% from the field in his last eight games. As well, the Serbian has recorded two straight 20+ point games for the first time in his NBA career. 

For Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey has had to continued to show out despite the recent losses. During the 76ers rough losing stretch, Maxey has achieved averages of 26.7 points per game, along with 4.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds, while shooting 46.0% from the field and 42.0% from three. Maxey will need to have more help from the players around him while Joel Embiid continues to miss time with his knee injury. 

NOTE: Ex-Hornet, Kai Jones recently signed a 10-day contract with the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, but it appears he will be spending time in the G-League for the Delaware Blue Coats. 

KEY MATCHUP: The Bench

The bench for both sides will be important with both teams shorthanded for tonight's matchup. The 76ers' recent additions of Buddy Hield and Cameron Payne will have to play a vital role. The Hornets recent additions of Grant Williams, Aleksej Pokusevski, and Davis Bertans will be needed to have solid performances off the bench to keep up with Philadelphia. In the last six games, the 76ers have recorded 37.2 points off the bench, while the Hornets have a lackluster 23.2 points off the bench.