The Philadelphia 76ers and the Charlotte Hornets will square off on Saturday for a crucial Eastern Conference matchup. Philly (40-33) and Charlotte (39-34) are still hoping to at least punch an outright ticket to the playoffs. The Sixers move half a game ahead of the Atlanta Hawks (41-33) for that coveted spot with a win.
Meanwhile, the sizzling-hot Hornets look to push their winning streak to six with when they take on the 76ers. LaMelo Ball and Co. haven’t lost at home since hosting the Miami Heat about 10 days ago. The winner of the 76ers-Hornets showdown secures the all-important advantage in the head-to-head tiebreaker.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets Odds
Moneyline: 76ers (+180) vs. Hornets (-220)
Odds: 76ers (+5.5 -105) vs. Hornets (-5.5 -115)
Total (O/U): 76ers (o233.0 -110) vs. Hornets (u233.0 -111)
Editor’s Note: The odds could change closer to the game.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets Injury Reports
76ers Injury Report
The good news for the 76ers ahead of their crucial showdown with the Hornets is the status of Kelly Oubre Jr. (elbow) and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey (finger). After missing multiple games due to injuries, they have been upgraded to questionable.
Hornets Injury Report
On the other hand, the Hornets are as healthy as they have been all season. Only forward Tidjane Salaun, out with a left calf strain, is on the inactive list. The others who are on the injury list have been assigned to the G League.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets Starting Lineups
76ers
PG: Tyrese Maxey | SG: VJ Edgecombe | SF: Paul George | PF: Dominick Barlow | C: Joel Embiid
Hornets
PG: LaMelo Ball | SG: Kon Knueppel | SF: Brandon Miller | PF: Miles Bridges | C: Moussa Diabate
Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction
If Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. return, the 76ers, on paper, have the advantage against the Hornets. With Joel Embiid almost back to his MVP self and VJ Edgecombe playing well, Maxey and Oubre’s potential return could be a major boost for Philly.
However, the Hornets have been playing much better on both ends behind LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. The in-form home team could secure the season series but allow the 76ers to cover the +5.5 spread.
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