Los Angeles Clippers vs Charlotte Hornets Prediction and Betting Tips

The Los Angeles Clippers are set to face the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, with television coverage on FDSSE, FDSSC, and tv64. The Clippers, boasting a 27-20 record, are currently sixth in the Western Conference, while the Hornets, at 12-32, sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.

Recent Performance and Team Form

The Clippers have been in solid form, winning seven of their last ten games. Their recent 128-116 victory over the San Antonio Spurs showcased strong performances from Ivica Zubac, who recorded a double-double with 21 points and 22 rebounds, and Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell, each contributing 27 points.

In contrast, the Hornets have struggled, losing five of their last ten games. Their recent 104-83 home loss to the Brooklyn Nets highlighted their offensive challenges, especially with key players like LaMelo Ball sidelined due to injury. Miles Bridges led the team in that game with 23 points and 13 rebounds.

Injury Reports

The Clippers will be without Cam Christie, Kris Dunn, and P.J. Tucker for this matchup. Their projected starting lineup includes James Harden (PG), Norman Powell (SG), Kawhi Leonard (SF), Derrick Jones Jr. (PF), and Ivica Zubac (C).

The Hornets are facing a more extensive injury list, missing LaMelo Ball, Cody Martin, Mark Williams, Tre Mann, Brandon Miller, and Grant Williams. Josh Green is questionable and will be a game-time decision. Their expected starters are Vasilije Micic (PG), Nick Smith Jr. (SG), Josh Green (SF), Miles Bridges (PF), and Taj Gibson (C).

Betting Odds and Analysis

As of January 31, 2025, the Clippers are favored by 13.5 points over the Hornets. The over/under for the game is set at 211.5 points.

The Clippers have a 4-3 record against the spread as road favorites and are 5-2 straight up in those games.

The Hornets, on the other hand, have struggled against the spread, going 1-3-1 in their last five games.

Key Player Props

• Norman Powell (Clippers): Powell has been a consistent scorer, surpassing 22.5 points in eight of his last eleven games. Given the Hornets’ defensive struggles, he is a strong candidate to exceed this mark again.
• Miles Bridges (Hornets): With several key players injured, Bridges has taken on a larger offensive role, recording over 33.5 combined points, rebounds, and assists in his last two games. He is expected to continue this trend against the Clippers.

Prediction

Considering the Clippers’ recent form and the Hornets’ injury woes, it’s likely that the Clippers will cover the 13.5-point spread. Additionally, with the Hornets’ offensive struggles, the total points may fall under the 211.5 mark.

Final Thoughts

This matchup heavily favors the Clippers, given their superior record, recent performances, and the Hornets’ injury challenges. Bettors should monitor any late-breaking news, especially regarding player injuries, before making final decisions.