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De’Aaron Fox, Spurs Look to Extend Hornets’ Losing Streak to Seven
Can the Hornets End Their Homestand on a Positive Note?
The Charlotte Hornets (10-41) will look to snap a six-game losing streak when they host the San Antonio Spurs (11-42) on Friday night. However, newly acquired De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama will try to lead San Antonio to a second straight victory.
Charlotte is 1-7 on its nine-game homestand, struggling with injuries and roster changes. Meanwhile, the Spurs are adjusting to Fox’s arrival from Sacramento, and he’s already making an impact.
With LaMelo Ball questionable and key players recently traded, the Hornets will have their hands full trying to contain Wembanyama and Fox.
Spurs: Adjusting to De’Aaron Fox and Eyeing Back-to-Back Wins
San Antonio’s Recent Performance
- Current Streak: Won 1
- Record: 11-42 (15th in Western Conference)
- Last Game: Defeated Atlanta Hawks 126-125 (Wednesday)
San Antonio snapped a two-game skid with a thrilling one-point win over Atlanta in Fox’s Spurs debut. The All-Star guard immediately made his presence felt, scoring 24 points and dishing out 13 assists.
Wembanyama also starred, posting 24 points and 12 rebounds, while hitting the game-winning free throw with 1.1 seconds remaining.
Key Players to Watch
- De’Aaron Fox (G, 26 years old): 24 PTS, 13 AST in his Spurs debut, providing elite playmaking.
- Victor Wembanyama (C, 20 years old): Averaging 24.6 PPG, 10.3 RPG, a dominant two-way force.
- Devin Vassell (G, 23 years old): Contributing 18.2 PPG, giving Fox a reliable scoring partner.
Fox’s transition to San Antonio will be crucial to the team’s long-term success. Head coach Mitch Johnson believes Fox’s experience will quickly integrate him into the system:
“A player of his caliber and the experience (he) has, there is nothing most of the time those guys haven’t seen.”
San Antonio’s defensive struggles remain a concern, ranking 28th in the NBA in defensive efficiency. However, with Fox orchestrating the offense, the Spurs will look to outscore the Hornets rather than rely on their defense.
Hornets: Looking to End a Disastrous Homestand
Charlotte’s Recent Performance
- Current Streak: Lost 6
- Record: 10-41 (14th in Eastern Conference)
- Last Game: Lost to Milwaukee Bucks 112-102 (Wednesday)
The Hornets have struggled on both ends of the court, and roster changes at the trade deadline could further disrupt their rhythm.
Charlotte traded center Mark Williams to the Los Angeles Lakers for Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and future draft picks. Additionally, they acquired Jusuf Nurkic from Phoenix, while sending out Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic.
It’s unclear if their new additions will be available Friday, leaving a depleted roster against a motivated Spurs team.
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Key Players to Watch
- LaMelo Ball (G, 22 years old): Questionable (ankle injury) but would provide a huge boost if available.
- Brandon Miller (F, 21 years old): Averaging 16.6 PPG, showing flashes of star potential.
- Miles Bridges (F, 25 years old): Leading Charlotte with 21.6 PPG, carrying the scoring load.
With LaMelo Ball’s status uncertain, Miller and Bridges will have to shoulder the offensive burden.
Head coach Charles Lee is focused on staying positive despite the struggles:
“You’re just trying to keep everybody’s focus on the next day and what you can control.”
One bright spot was Tidjane Salaun’s return from illness and a G-League stint. The rookie forward scored 10 points in 22 minutes, bringing energy and athleticism to Charlotte’s frontcourt.
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Key Storylines and Matchup Breakdown
De’Aaron Fox’s Impact on the Spurs’ Offense
✅ Fox instantly transformed San Antonio’s playmaking in his debut.
✅ With Wembanyama and Devin Vassell, the Spurs have more offensive options.
✅ Can Fox exploit Charlotte’s struggling defense (ranked 29th in defensive efficiency)?
Charlotte’s Trade Deadline Shakeup
✅ The Hornets will look different, but will the new players be available Friday?
✅ If LaMelo Ball sits, Charlotte’s offensive flow could be an issue.
✅ Can Brandon Miller continue his growth as a primary option?
Can the Hornets Finish Their Homestand on a Positive Note?
✅ 1-7 in their last 8 home games, Charlotte needs a morale boost.
✅ The Hornets haven’t won since Jan. 26 and risk falling deeper into rebuild mode.
Game Details
📅 Date: Friday, February 9, 2024
🕒 Time: 7:00 PM ET
📍 Location: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
📺 TV: Bally Sports Southeast
Will De’Aaron Fox continue to impress with his new team, or can the Hornets finally break their losing streak?
