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Will Stephen Curry Play Tonight? Golden State Warriors vs Charlotte Hornets: Preview, Lineups & Prediction

Published 02/20/2021, 12:00 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Golden State Warriors are ready to meet the Charlotte Hornets for the very first time this season. Both the sides are coming off fresh losses and stand at more or less similar ranks in their respective conferences. 

For the Warriors (16-14), their latest loss came against the Orlando Magic when they faltered in the clutch time. On the other hand, the Hornets (13-15) were decimated by the Spurs’ bench which proved too heavy for their defense as they continued alternating between wins and losses.

So which team is better equipped to win tonight?

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Golden State Warriors vs Charlotte Hornets: Injury updates and lineup prediction

USA Today via Reuters

For the Hornets, both the Martin Brothers (Cody and Caleb) will miss the game because of COVID protocols. Point guard Devonte’ Graham (knee) is doubtful for the game, while small forward Gordon Hayward (back) is listed probable for Saturday.

Probable starting line-up – Terry Rozier (SG), Miles Bridges (SF), Cody Zeller (C), LaMelo Ball (PG), and P.J. Washington (PF)

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For the Warriors, Kevon Looney (ankle) is out and center rookie James Wiseman (wrist) will also remain out of play against the Hornets.

Probable starting roster – Andrew Wiggins (SG), Kelly Oubre Jr. (SF), Eric Paschall (C), Stephen Curry (PG), and Draymond Green (PF)

Who wins?

USA Today via Reuters

The poor defensive rebounding and high turnovers have been bothering the Hornets for the past few seasons. However, they have done a better job this season, having won against teams like Pelicans and even the Brooklyn Nets.

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LaMelo Ball has been averaging 14.6 points, 6.2 rebs, and 6.1 assists and is leading the bench with his playmaking abilities. He has started in eight games and has shown that he can become regular at that position too.

Terry Rozier is another name that has impressed in this season, averaging a career-high 20+ ppg. It is just the absence of Gordon Hayward that will pinch them against GSW, in case he does not show up.

The Warriors, arguably, are a better side this season, even with James Wiseman sitting out. They have an All-star in Stephen Curry who is dropping big numbers every single night.

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Kelly Oubre Jr and Andrew Wiggins are both getting better with the season. The Warriors have a better offense than the Hornets, and they are looking for a win after losing to the Magic. We hence predict a double-figure win for the Warriors.

Read AlsoWarriors’ Steph Curry Reacts to Being Voted For NBA All-Star Starter

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Written by:

Sourabh Singh

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Sourabh Singh is an NBA sports analyst for EssentiallySports, who has been working with the site since May 2020. Prior to this, he functioned as Managing Editor at WittyFeed, followed by a stint at Decathlon. The Sports Management graduate leads an active lifestyle, veering to the mountains for off-trail adventures.
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