Toronto Raptors (17-31) vs. Charlotte Hornets (10-37)
Toronto Raptors vs. Charlotte Hornets February 7, 2024 – As the NBA season continues to unfold, the Toronto Raptors and Charlotte Hornets prepare to face off in a pivotal matchup this Wednesday. The Raptors, standing at 17-31, are looking to improve their position, while the Hornets, with a record of 10-37, are eager to turn their season around. This game, set to take place at the Spectrum Center, is a crucial one for both teams as they aim to climb up the standings. For those looking into the latest NBA picks, this game presents an intriguing set of dynamics given both teams’ current forms and standings.
Toronto Raptors vs. Charlotte Hornets February 7, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Spectrum Center |
| TV: | BSSE |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Scottie Barnes (SF) vs. Miles Bridges (SF)
Scottie Barnes has been a standout this season, starting all 48 games and averaging 35.2 minutes, 20.3 points, 8.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists per contest. He crashes the boards hard, with 2.3 offensive rebounds and 5.9 defensive rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field. Barnes does struggle with turnovers at times, coughing it up 2.7 times per game. But his versatility and two-way ability should pose a formidable challenge for the Hornets.
Meanwhile, Miles Bridges earned his big contract extension after a career year for Charlotte last season. When healthy in 2023-24, he has continued that strong production, averaging 20.8 points in 34 starts so far. Though not the same caliber rebounder as Barnes, Bridges has still pulled down 7.4 boards per game, including 6.6 on the defensive glass. His strength and athleticism could give the Raptors rookie some trouble.
This matchup should be highly entertaining, pitting two of the game’s promising young wings against one another. While Barnes has the edge rebounding the ball, Bridges brings the experience and scoring punch the veteran Hornets desperately need. If Barnes can limit mistakes and exploit Bridges’ average defense, it would provide a major boost to Toronto’s upset bid on the road.
Raptors’ Tactical Play: A Closer Look
The Raptors have enjoyed an exemplary team performance this season, averaging 114.3 points per game with a 47.9% field goal percentage and led by Barnes with their 11.8 three-point field goals per game – this displays their ability to attack from both inside and from outside – but their 12.8 turnovers per game create an area for vulnerability that the Hornets could exploit. Their 7.6 steals and 4.8 blocks per game illustrate their aggressive defense which should help keep their scorers contained.
Hornets’ Struggle and Strategy
Charlotte Hornets have displayed signs of competitiveness despite their struggles, especially their offensive output of 108.5 points per game and 36.1% three-point shooting percentage. Bridges is the focal point of their offense while creating free throw opportunities (78.5% free throw percentage) is another indicator. Unfortunately, their 13.1 turnovers per game and defensive inconsistency have proven major hindrances; thus forcing the Hornets to use their 6.6 steals and 5 blocks per game as leverage against Toronto Raptors offense and create transition scoring opportunities against them.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
As betting odds for this matchup have yet to be set, bettors should keep a close watch on its unfolding. Performance trends and statistical analyses suggest a closely contested battle, but with their slightly superior record and defensive capabilities, Raptors might emerge as slight favorites.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
Raptors are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Toronto Raptors are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Raptors are 12-12 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Raptors’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Raptors’ 23 last games at home.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Trends
Hornets are 0-5 in their last 5 games.
Charlotte Hornets are 0-5 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Hornets are 8-16 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Hornets’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Hornets’ 23 last games at home.
Toronto Raptors vs. Charlotte Hornets Betting Picks
Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Raptors might have a slight edge in this matchup, particularly with their defensive capabilities and the Hornets’ struggles on both ends of the floor. However, the game’s outcome could hinge on the performance of key players like Barnes and Bridges. Bettors should consider looking at the over/under given both teams’ tendencies to score and allow points, making it a potentially lucrative angle.
For those searching for action beyond the game’s winner, prop bets involving Barnes and Bridges’ performance could offer value, given their significant roles. When betting, using certified sports betting sites ensures reliability and security for your wagers.
Score Prediction: Raptors 112, Hornets 105
