Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons: Predictions, Starting Lineups (3/11/24)
The Charlotte Hornets (16-48) battle the Detroit Pistons (10-53) this Monday (3/11/24). Get Hornets vs. Pistons moneyline and spread odds, as well as predictions, starting lineups, injuries, and key matchups below.
Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons Prediction
Since Mark Williams’ injury on December 8th, Charlotte has given up the 8th most restricted area field goal attempts per game, along with the 8th largest restricted area field goal percentage (via NBA.com). Their inability to offer resistance near the rim is a concern against Detroit.
Cade Cunningham averages the 4th most drives per game across the NBA. Over his past 13 games, the former first overall pick has averaged 23.2 points and 7.8 assists on excellent 47/43/90 shooting splits. His slashing style will shred an ineffective Hornets paint defense.
Meanwhile, Charlotte ranks 28th defending the roll man and 29th defending put-backs. Jalen Duren is a physical monster inside the paint, and he should terrorize a Hornets squad that allows the 4th most points per game to centers. Factor in Jaden Ivey’s driving, and Detroit’s starting lineup likely thrives.
On the other end, Quentin Grimes and Ausar Thompson are disruptive individual defenders that can pester Charlotte’s scorers. Brandon Miller in particular will face heavy pressure from the duo.
Finally, Detroit’s bench is far deeper than Charlotte’s at the moment. Marcus Sasser and Simone Fontecchio are both capable of getting hot from deep, while James Wiseman could be an impactful lob threat here. Compared to a Hornets bench that features Davis Bertans and raw projects, it’s night and day.
Overall, look for Detroit to take this game by around seven to eight points.
Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons Prediction: Pistons -4
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Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons Best Odds
The Pistons are four point favorites in this spot, which is only the 6th time they have been favored all year. It’s worth noting that Charlotte is 12-20 against the spread on the road, while Detroit is 14-16-1 against the spread at home.
For the Hornets’ +154 moneyline to be profitable in the long run, they must win at least 40 percent of the time.
Charlotte Hornets Starting Lineup
PG: Vasilije Micic
SG: Brandon Miller
SF: Miles Bridges
PF: Grant Williams
C: Nick Richards
Detroit Pistons Starting Lineup
PG: Cade Cunningham
SG: Jaden Ivey
SF: Ausar Thompson
PF: Isaiah Stewart
C: Jalen Duren
Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons Injuries
LaMelo Ball, Mark Williams, Cody Martin, Seth Curry, Tre Mann, and Bryce McGowens are sidelined for the Hornets. On the other side, Quentin Grimes is probable, while Ausar Thompson holds a questionable tag.
Charlotte Hornets vs. Detroit Pistons Key Matchups
Hornets Free Throws
Detroit ranks 29th in opponent free throw attempt rate, and Charlotte must take advantage of this weakness. Free throws inherently boast a massive expected points per possession, so getting to the line often would inject a boost into Charlotte’s offense. If they accomplish this mission, then their cover chances drastically increase.
