The New Orleans Pelicans dominated the Brooklyn Nets in the opener and hope to do the same against the Charlotte Hornets tonight on the road.
This will be a different kind of test for the Pelicans, as this is a game they should win, but they will need to come with the same focused effort against the Hornets.
So can New Orleans take care of business tonight on the road and start the season 2-0? Here is everything you need to know.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Charlotte Hornets: Odds and Spread, Over/Under
According to FanDuel, New Orleans is a 6.5 favorite on the road against Charlotte. The money lines are set at -295 for the Pels and +235 for the Hornets.
The over/under is 229.5 combined points, way down from last game against the Nets. The Pelicans scored 130 points on Brooklyn so the books must think that New Orleans can hold the Hornets to a low score.
I like the Pelicans to cover in this one and the under, as the Pels are on the road and I agree that they have a chance to keep Charlotte to a low score.
Pelicans injury report
Kira Lewis Jr. is out until further notice and Jaxson Hayes has been upgraded to questionable for New Orleans, which is a good sign that he’ll return soon.
Charlotte will be missing LaMelo Ball, which is another reason I think New Orleans should be able to dominate them defensively. Forward Cody Martin is also listed as doubtful for Charlotte.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Charlotte Hornets: Prediction
New Orleans can’t take this for granted just because they started the season strong, as the Hornets have some sneaky good scorers and can light anyone up on a given night.
But the Pels have the advantage at every position, should be able to dominate down low with Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas, and Brandon Ingram should be able to have his way with whoever they try to put on him. New Orleans also has superior depth and should be able to get another big night out of their bench.
I think the Pels keep rolling and put on a defensive display against Charlotte.
New Orleans 120, Charlotte 100
How to watch Pelicans vs Hornets
The game vs Charlotte will have an early tip off at 6:00 PM CT and you can watch it on Bally Sports New Orleans or listen on WRNO 99.5 FM.
How to stream Pelicans vs. Hornets
You can stream the games on FUBO.TV or with NBA League Pass if you are out of market.
*Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.