Charlotte Hornets (8-22) vs. Denver Nuggets (15-15)
Charlotte Hornets vs. Denver Nuggets January 1, 2024 – As 2018 begins in spectacular NBA fashion at Ball Arena, Charlotte Hornets take on Denver Nuggets for an intriguing contest that has already created much buzz among both fans and bettors alike. Boasting an 8-22 record compared to 15-15 for both sides, this matchup provides ample opportunity for free basketball predictions as well as detailed analyses of what could unfold on court.
Charlotte Hornets vs. Denver Nuggets January 1, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Ball Arena |
| TV: | TBD |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Brandon Miller (F) vs. Nikola Jokic (C)
Brandon Miller has been an integral component to the Hornets’ difficult season thus far. Averaging 14.7 points while playing 31.3 minutes a game, Miller shows remarkable resilience on the court despite struggles with turnovers (1.8 per game) and fouls (2.7 per game). Miller will play an essential role in deciding the outcome of this encounter for Charlotte.
Nikola Jokic has been nothing short of spectacular for the Nuggets this season. Averaging 26.3 points and 12.4 rebounds per game, Jokic is a force to be reckoned with on offense and defense alike – scoring 9.2 assists per game, recording 1.2 steals and 0.8 blocks each night and boasting an assist-to-turnover ratio (3.6). Jokic’s efficiency against Hornets teams was evident as evidenced by an incredible assist-to-turnover ratio (3.1).
Miller and Jokic will face off against one another in an exciting showdown that pits their agility and scoring prowess against his all-around dominance. Miller must use his speed and shooting abilities to outwit Jokic while Jokic’s playmaking and rebounding prowess test Hornets defense; their head-to-head duel could prove crucial in the outcome of this matchup.
Hornets’ Struggle for Consistency: A Statistical Overview
The Hornets have struggled this season with inconsistency. While their average scoring of 110.3 PPG may not be completely offset by defensive slippage, leading to their 8-22 record. A key concern is their field goal percentage (46.6%) which, while respectable, hasn’t translated to wins; three point shooting (35.1%) and free throw accuracy (78.5%) have both been strengths; however turnovers (13.6 per game) and fouls (19.7 per game) remain an Achilles heel of sorts – improvements in ball security or discipline could make all the difference for them in 2019-2020!
Nuggets’ Balanced Attack: A Formidable Opponent
The Nuggets boast an effective and balanced offense, scoring an average of 115.9 points per game on an efficient 5-on-5 offense. Their field goal percentage (49.2%) and 3-point shooting (38.1%) surpass the Hornets, showing their superior efficiency. Furthermore, their rebounding (44.8 per game) and assist statistics (297 per game) demonstrate they excel both offensively and defensively, making them formidable competitors against whom the Nuggets will need to maintain home court advantage and exploit any weak spots on defense by the Hornets.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Bettors eagerly anticipate betting odds being established and eagerly watch for lines to emerge. Based on current standings and trends, the Nuggets may emerge as favorites but due to the NBA’s unpredictable nature there can always be surprises in store for us all.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
The Hornets have shown little sign of improvement recently, going 0-5 in their last 5 games and failing to cover both against the spread (2-3 over their last five) and on the road (5-9). Notably, in two of those five games totals went OVER suggesting high scoring affairs could be on tap.
Denver Nuggets Betting Trends
The Nuggets have shown improved form over their last five games, going unbeaten and posting an overall mark of 5-1 against the spread in these contests. Their road record stands at 7-11 while two out of their last five total GOING OVER is indicative of their high scoring nature.
Charlotte Hornets vs. Denver Nuggets Betting Picks
The Nuggets appear to be the safer bet based on analysis and trends, particularly their home advantage and Jokic’s dominant form. Prop bets involving Jokic’s points, rebounds and assists could prove particularly interesting due to his all-around play. For Charlotte Hornets Miller may play an instrumental role in their scoring but their inconsistency makes betting on them riskier.
At top online betting platforms, the Nuggets appear to be the better pick, due to their balanced team play and recent form. However, much will depend on whether or not Hornets can keep pace offensively and whether Nuggets’ defense remains consistent enough for an over/under.
Receiving Yards Prop: Denver Nuggets 112, Charlotte Hornets 101.
