Charlotte Hornets (7-19) vs. LA Clippers (17-12)
Charlotte Hornets are set to face LA Clippers this Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena for an intriguing NBA clash. Currently holding an 8-19 record, Charlotte hopes to find their footing while 17-12 LA aims to strengthen their position. Set for an 8:30 PM ET tip-off time and broadcast by NBAt, this game could offer some incredible best live betting action and should start around 10:30 PM ET tip time.
The Hornets have had an up and down season, with their record reflecting this lack of consistency. On average, they averaged 111 points per game with 47% field goal percentage and 35.5% 3-point field goal percentage and have shown flashes of offensive brilliance; however, defensive play often let them down, leading them into an 0-five slump over the last five games; even with 24.9 assists and 6.9 steals per game and average of 20 fouls per game; both factors being significant factors.
Conversely, the Clippers have been on a roll recently with four wins out of their last five matches and an average scoring output of 117 points per game and boasting a higher field goal percentage (48.6%) than Charlotte Hornets has made them more efficient offensively and defensively, posting 8.4 steals per game and 5.4 blocks against them respectively. They also possess better control of turnovers and fouls which could prove vital in this matchup.
Charlotte Hornets vs. LA Clippers Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
LaMelo Ball (PG) vs. Kawhi Leonard (SF)
LaMelo Ball is averaging 24.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game while shooting over 47% from the field. The third year guard earned his first All Star selection last season and has taken on even more responsibility for a struggling Hornets team this year. His scoring and playmaking make Charlotte dangerous on any given night. However, his high usage also leads to lots of turnovers (3.9 per game).
Kawhi Leonard continues to dominate in every facet of the game, averaging 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals while rarely turning it over (1.5 per game). His two-way impact and championship pedigree give the Clippers an edge against most opponents. If he can slow down LaMelo Ball, it will go a long way towards securing a Los Angeles win.
This matchup of stars at different stages of their careers should provide plenty of highlights. While LaMelo has flourished recently in absence of a strong supporting cast, Kawhi still has the higher basketball IQ and postseason experience that typically prevails in these situations.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds are yet to be determined for this game. However, considering the Clippers’ recent form and home advantage, they are likely to be the favorites. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
The trends clearly favor the Clippers here. Not only have the Hornets lost five straight, but they are also just 1-7 straight up and 2-6 against the spread over their last eight road games. Charlotte is also 0-6 straight up and against the spread over its last six games playing on zero days of rest. With the Hornets playing away from home after a loss last night, the situation sets up very poorly for them to cover the spread.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
Meanwhile, the Clippers have thrived in nearly the exact opposite scenarios. They have won six of their last seven home games straight up and against the spread. Los Angeles is also 4-1 straight up and 5-0 against the spread over its last five games playing on one day of rest. Riding multiple positive situational and motivational factors, the Clippers should be primed to dominate against the slumping Hornets.
Charlotte Hornets vs. LA Clippers 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, the Clippers seem to have an edge in this matchup. Their consistent performance, both offensively and defensively, makes them a solid pick. However, the Hornets have the potential for an upset, especially if Ball can exploit any defensive lapses.
In terms of NBA free picks today, the Clippers are the safer bet. The over/under will be crucial, and depending on the final odds, there could be value in prop bets involving key players like Ball and Leonard.
