This Kings and Hornets matchup feels like two ships passing in the night. Despite efforts to be competitive, the Sacramento Kings are dead last in the Western Conference. But the Charlotte Hornets are surging and poised to double their win total from last season on their way to a playoff appearance. Will this be the blowout it appears to be on paper? Or will the Kings surprise us and light the beam?
Charlotte is a 16.5-point favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook, while Sacramento sits as a +850 ML underdog. The total is set at 229.5 points. Let’s get into a prediction and pick for this Tuesday’s matchup between the Kings and Hornets.
Kings vs. Hornets preview
First things first, the lengthy injury report of the Sacramento Kings has to be addressed, because it’s a clear sign of their intentions in this game.
Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and DeAndre Hunter remain out for the remainder of the season. Keegan Murray will be out for at least a few more days as he manages his ongoing injuries. Nique Clifford, a promising rookie, has been ruled out for at least a week as of Monday night. Russell Westbrook, one of the lone bright spots in this season, will be out. They also have contributors like Precious Achiuwa, Daeqwon Plowden, Isaiah Stevens, and Killian Hayes (talk about naming some dudes) listed as questionable. It’s safe to say that head coach Doug Christie won’t be dealing with a full deck on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the Hornets have as clean a bill of health as you could hope for at this point in the season. Tidjane Salaün, who plays just under 16 minutes a night in 36 total games, will be out. Electric rookie Kon Knueppel is listed as probable with back soreness. So it’s going to be all systems go for the Hornets, barring any late scratches.
The gap between these teams seems to grow with each passing game. Charlotte’s offense has been exceptional when LaMelo Ball, Knueppel, and Brandon Miller share the floor. It’s a lot for any team to handle at the moment, especially with Sacramento’s lineup falling apart. They’re also putting together an awfully strong defense as they head down the stretch run.
So, do the Kings have any hope of stopping this train? Or will the Hornets steamroll right over them?
Kings vs. Hornets pick, best bet
No sense in beating around the bush. The Hornets are going to put the hurt on the Kings, who have no intention of winning this game. Charlotte will continue their rise in the East, while the Kings collect as many lottery balls as they can. Welcome to March NBA basketball, where you’re lucky if one team is trying its hardest to win.
