Atticus Ferguson: Thunder 128, Hornets 102.
It's no secret that OKC has a seemingly endless supply of young star power on their roster. It will be critical for Nick Richards to avoid foul trouble tonight, otherwise Chet Holmgren is going to abuse Charlotte for four quarters. The Hornets simply do not have the answer on defense for this high powered Thunder attack, and once again having no LaMelo Ball, it's hard to see them keeping pace in a shootout for the full 48 minutes.
Prediction record: 16-4.
Pat Fitzsimmons: Thunder 122, Hornets 106.
The Hornets defense has been bad all season, and specifically has not been able to control guards as of late. Coby White had 35 points, and Jalen Brunson had 32 points just this week against the Hornets. The task gets harder tonight going against the number four team in the league in scoring, and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who is averaging 33 ppg in his last five. With no LaMelo, it will be difficult for the Hornets to keep up with the Thunder’s high scoring offense.
Prediction record: 2-2.
Philip Trapp: Thunder 117, Hornets 104.
With LaMelo Ball again listed as doubtful for the Hornets, most presume that Charlotte will have a rough game against the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight. The Thunder are currently the No. 2 team in the West with a 33-15 record. The Hornets have only won five of their last 30 games, and the team continues to struggle defensively. Also, there's no more Terry Rozier here to pick up the slack — so Brandon Miller, the impressive rookie, and his starting Hornets teammates need to come strong right out of the gate.
Prediction record: 3-2.
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