Charlotte Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Predictions January 20th 2025

Hornets Aim for Momentum Amid Adversity vs. Mavericks

The Charlotte Hornets host the Dallas Mavericks on Monday afternoon with both teams battling injuries and inconsistency. While the Hornets are seeking their first three-game win streak of the season, the Mavericks are trying to build on a hard-fought win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Hornets: Overcoming Setbacks

Charlotte (2-1 on their latest road trip) enters the game fresh off a 125-123 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Friday. However, the Hornets’ optimism is tempered by the loss of standout rookie Brandon Miller, who sustained a severe wrist injury last week.

Miller, averaging 21.0 points per game, will be sidelined indefinitely. His absence creates opportunities for players like newly acquired Josh Okogie, who is expected to bolster Charlotte’s defense.

“I think he’s a jack of all trades,” Hornets coach Charles Lee said of Okogie. “He brings a great defensive presence to our team.”

Nick Smith Jr. stepped up with his first NBA start against Chicago, contributing 15 points in 26 minutes, while Seth Curry added another 15 off the bench. LaMelo Ball, who has been vocal about the team’s challenges, remains a key piece for Charlotte, especially in Miller’s absence.

Mavericks: Battling Injuries and Road Woes

Dallas (4-9 since Christmas) is coming off a much-needed 106-98 victory against the Thunder on Friday. Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 25 points in his third game back after a January absence due to a back injury.

“I feel a lot better,” Irving said, emphasizing the importance of patience in his recovery. “Just continuing to trend in the right direction so I don’t have a lapse.”

The Mavericks, however, are dealing with additional injuries. Jaden Hardy (ankle) and Dwight Powell (hip) exited Friday’s game and did not return. Their statuses for Monday remain uncertain, adding to the team’s challenges on the road, where Dallas has lost five straight games.

Dallas forward P.J. Washington, a former Hornet, will make his return to Charlotte. Washington has been a consistent contributor for the Mavericks, averaging 13.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.

Key Matchups

1. LaMelo Ball vs. Kyrie Irving: Both guards will be central to their teams’ offensive output. Ball’s playmaking and scoring will need to counter Irving’s leadership and shot-making abilities.
2. Josh Okogie vs. P.J. Washington: Okogie’s defensive presence could play a pivotal role in containing Washington, who is a threat on the boards and from mid-range.
3. Charlotte’s Depth vs. Dallas’ Injuries: With both teams missing key players, the battle of the benches could determine the outcome. Smith and Curry will look to replicate their strong performances from Friday.

Stakes

For the Hornets, a win would mark their first three-game streak of the season and build momentum despite Miller’s absence. The Mavericks, meanwhile, need a road victory to reverse their recent struggles and keep pace in the Western Conference standings.

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Conclusion

With both teams grappling with injuries and inconsistency, Monday’s game offers a chance to reset and refocus. Will the Hornets rally behind their young core and newfound defensive energy, or can the Mavericks overcome their road woes with another star performance from Irving? Expect a competitive battle as these two teams collide.