New Orleans Pelicans vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions March 30th 2025

Hornets vs. Pelicans: Young Talent Meets Lottery Stakes

The Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans face off Sunday in a matchup that won’t impact playoff seeding — but will have major implications for the NBA Draft Lottery. With both teams eliminated from postseason contention, the game becomes a showcase for young talent and a factor in determining future draft odds.

Charlotte (18-55) and New Orleans (20-54) are near the bottom of the NBA standings, and with just two wins separating them, this matchup could have real implications in the lottery projections.

For more insights into team performance and upcoming odds, visit the NBA Draft Odds Predictions.

Charlotte Hornets: The KJ Simpson Show Begins

The Hornets are beginning a new chapter with the announcement that star guard LaMelo Ball will miss the rest of the season due to ankle and wrist injuries. Ball, who averaged 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, leaves a massive void in Charlotte’s offense.

Enter rookie KJ Simpson. The second-round pick and two-way player made his first start Friday against the Raptors and posted 14 points and 3 assists in a 108-97 loss. Coach Charles Lee noted that while Simpson will take on more responsibilities, he won’t be alone in replacing Ball’s production.

“KJ’s got to be the head of the snake for us right now, especially not having Melo in there as our primary ball handler,” Lee said. “He’s got to be ready to expect some pressure every game.”

Big man Mark Williams stepped up with 18 points and 12 rebounds, and four other Hornets players scored in double digits. Charlotte has now lost four straight games, but the development of their young core remains the main focus.

To explore how the Hornets rank among rebuilding teams, check the NBA Southeast Division Odds.

New Orleans Pelicans: Deep in the Youth Movement

The Pelicans are facing one of the most injury-depleted rosters in the league. Leading scorer Zion Williamson (back), CJ McCollum (foot), and Dejounte Murray are all out. Third-leading scorer Trey Murphy III and defensive stopper Herbert Jones are done for the season. Second-leading scorer Brandon Ingram was traded away last month.

Friday’s 111-95 loss to Golden State saw rookie center Yves Missi and second-year guard Jordan Hawkins take on starting roles. The bench was filled with rookies Karlo Matkovic, Antonio Reeves, and Keion Brooks Jr. Despite a strong start that saw them jump out to a 14-2 lead and take a halftime advantage, the Pelicans faltered in the final quarter.

Coach Willie Green praised his young team’s effort but emphasized consistency:
“When you’re playing against a really good team, you have to do your best to be solid for 48 minutes,” Green said. “It was about 3 1/2 quarters. We’ve got to get closer to 48 minutes of sustaining that level of play.”

For updates on Pelicans injuries and depth chart analysis, visit the NBA Southwest Division Odds.

Draft Lottery Implications

With both teams near the bottom of the standings, the outcome of this game could affect their draft lottery positioning. The Hornets currently hold the NBA’s third-worst record, while the Pelicans are just ahead of them. Charlotte already delivered its most lopsided win of the season in a 123-92 blowout over New Orleans back on January 25.

Sunday’s rematch may not have postseason implications, but it has plenty of long-term significance. For players fighting for contracts, rookies pushing for starting roles, and front offices eyeing top draft picks, this game still matters.

For full draft analysis and pick forecasts, check the NBA Draft Leader Odds.

What to Watch For

• Can KJ Simpson prove he belongs in the Hornets’ future plans?
• Will Charlotte complete the season sweep over New Orleans?
• Can the Pelicans’ young core stay consistent for a full 48 minutes?
• Which team will inch closer to higher lottery odds with a loss?
• Who among the rookies will emerge as a breakout performer?

For betting angles and game predictions, visit the NBA Picks.

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Conclusion

With the playoffs out of reach, the Hornets and Pelicans now shift their focus toward development, evaluation, and — let’s be real — better lottery odds. This game will serve as a platform for rookies and fringe rotation players to make a statement. While fans may not be watching for playoff implications, scouts and front offices certainly will.

For more analysis, odds breakdowns, and expert predictions, visit the NBA Expert Betting Guide.