Philadelphia 76ers vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions November 10th 2024

The Philadelphia 76ers, off to a tough 1-7 start, are aiming to turn their season around as they host the red-hot Charlotte Hornets on Sunday. Despite historically dominating this matchup—winning 23 of the last 25 games, including a four-game sweep last season—the Sixers are facing significant injury setbacks and must overcome struggles on both ends of the court to keep their winning trend alive.

Injury Woes Disrupt Sixers’ Season

The Sixers entered the season with high expectations behind a formidable lineup featuring Joel Embiid, newly acquired Paul George, and rising star Tyrese Maxey. However, injuries have reshaped the team’s outlook:

Joel Embiid has yet to play this season due to a lingering knee issue and is also serving a three-game suspension following an off-court incident. His return is expected Tuesday against the New York Knicks.

Paul George missed the first five games with a knee injury and has struggled since returning, shooting just 41.7% from the field and going 3-for-16 from three-point range.

Tyrese Maxey injured his hamstring against the Clippers on Wednesday and will likely be sidelined for multiple weeks.

Without their key players, Philadelphia has leaned on a mix of young talent and role players. Jared McCain, a rookie, led the team with 18 points off the bench in Friday’s loss to the Lakers, while veterans George and Kelly Oubre Jr. combined for just nine points on 8-of-29 shooting in a rough outing.

“We have to remain positive and hold it together until we get healthy,” George commented. “Once Embiid and Maxey are back, we can start building and truly find our identity.”

Defensive Concerns for Philadelphia

The Sixers’ struggles aren’t limited to offense. They’ve allowed at least 105 points in each of their first eight games, which has made closing out games difficult. Head coach Nick Nurse emphasized the importance of defense, particularly given the absence of key scorers.

“We go through droughts on offense, and then we aren’t able to make up for it on the defensive end,” Nurse said. “We have to collectively figure out a way to play better, especially when we’re short-handed.”

Hornets Lean on LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller

The Hornets, in contrast, are hitting their stride, led by LaMelo Ball and rookie Brandon Miller. Ball is averaging 28.4 points per game and has shown his clutch ability, leading the NBA in fourth-quarter points. His 31-point performance, including 17 in the final quarter, powered the Hornets to a 103-83 win over Indiana on Friday.

“LaMelo’s confidence in the fourth quarter is contagious,” said Hornets head coach Charles Lee. “It gives everyone a boost when he’s on the floor making plays.”

Meanwhile, Miller has quickly become a consistent scoring threat, hitting a game-winning putback against Detroit on Wednesday and scoring 29 points with seven threes in Friday’s win. Together, Ball and Miller have created a strong offensive duo.

“It’s going to be a scary sight,” Miller said. “LaMelo’s playmaking and my shooting make us a strong combination. We’re building something special.”

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Keys to the Game

For the Sixers to snap their losing streak, here’s what they’ll need to focus on:

Defensive Intensity

With their offensive core out, the Sixers will have to lean on defense to keep the game close and disrupt Ball and Miller’s rhythm. Containing Charlotte’s offense will be crucial.

Supporting Cast Contributions

Philadelphia will need contributions from role players like Oubre, George, and McCain to generate enough offense to stay competitive. Without Embiid and Maxey, the Sixers need everyone to step up.

Transition Defense

The Hornets thrive on a fast-paced style of play, led by Ball. Limiting turnovers and preventing Charlotte from capitalizing on fast breaks will be essential for Philadelphia.

For the Hornets, maintaining their high-energy offense and riding the momentum of Ball and Miller will be key. If Charlotte can keep the Sixers on their heels defensively, they stand a good chance of extending their win streak and overcoming a long history of losses against Philadelphia.

Outlook

The Sixers will look to energize their home crowd as they try to regain momentum in what’s become a must-win game early in the season. With key players sidelined, Philadelphia will need to execute their defensive game plan to keep Charlotte’s offense in check. Meanwhile, the Hornets aim to continue their strong play and break their trend of struggles against the Sixers.