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Golden State Warriors forward Kent Bazemore (26) and forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) and guard Stephen Curry (30) and forward Draymond Green (23) during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Golden State Warriors forward Kent Bazemore (26) and forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) and guard Stephen Curry (30) and forward Draymond Green (23) during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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.
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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?
Golden State Warriors vs Charlotte Hornets: Injury updates and lineup prediction
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Hornets forward Gordon Hayward drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
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)
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?
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Warriors forward Draymond Green in action during the game between the Mavericks and GSW at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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.
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.
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.
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