Trail Blazers Look to Extend Streak Against Hornets

The Portland Trail Blazers, riding the wave of a stellar defensive performance against the Orlando Magic, are set to face the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. With both teams showing recent flashes of brilliance, this clash promises to be a compelling battle of defense versus offense.

Blazers Shine on Defense

Portland’s defense took center stage in their dominant 101-79 victory over the Magic on Thursday. The Blazers, now on a three-game winning streak for the second time this season, held their opponent under 100 points for just the third time all year.

“Just willing to scrap and fight,” said center Robert Williams III about the team’s mindset.

Head coach Chauncey Billups praised his squad’s effort, calling it a “masterpiece” and emphasizing their ability to disrupt Orlando’s rhythm. On offense, Anfernee Simons led the charge with 21 points, while five Blazers scored in double digits.

Though rookie guard Scoot Henderson struggled, managing just four points in 14 minutes, Portland will look to continue their balanced contributions in this back-to-back game.

Hornets Rely on Offensive Firepower

The Charlotte Hornets, meanwhile, are finding their groove offensively. Despite a 132-120 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, the team is enjoying an impressive run in January, going 4-4 after a tough December.

Center Mark Williams was the star of the Memphis game, pouring in a career-high 38 points. His stellar play has been a bright spot for the Hornets, especially since Nick Richards’ recent trade to the Suns.

Williams has hit at least 24 points in three of his last five games, and his chemistry with teammates is paying off. “Credit to my teammates for trusting me,” Williams said.

LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges Add Versatility

Charlotte’s offense has also been fueled by guard LaMelo Ball and forward Miles Bridges. Ball’s playmaking—highlighted by a recent stretch of four straight games with nine-plus assists—has been pivotal, though his streak ended against Memphis with six assists.

Bridges, meanwhile, is delivering consistent scoring, hitting the 20-point mark in six of eight games this month. His resurgence is especially valuable following Brandon Miller’s season-ending injury.

“We always knew Bridges had this in him,” said Lee.

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What to Watch For

The Hornets will need to tighten up defensively after allowing 130-plus points for the second time this season. Injuries could also play a role—Seth Curry (ankle), Ball (wrist), and Bridges (back spasms) are all dealing with issues.

The Blazers, on the other hand, are looking to stay locked in defensively and capitalize on their momentum. Portland has won four of their last five games against Charlotte, a trend they’ll aim to extend in this first meeting of the season.

Expect a high-energy showdown as Portland’s defense meets Charlotte’s offensive creativity.