NBA 2024-2025: Charlotte Hornets vs Utah Jazz Prediction
Charlotte Hornets
Home Team
71.8%
114.2 pts
VS
Utah Jazz
Away Team
28.2%
112.0 pts
Key Prediction Insights
The Charlotte Hornets are predicted to edge out the Utah Jazz with a 71.8% probability, scoring 114.2 to Utah's 112.0. The Hornets' expected starting lineup features KJ Simpson, DaQuan Jeffries, Josh Green, Miles Bridges, and Mark Williams. For the Jazz, the starting five includes Isaiah Collier, Cody Williams, Collin Sexton, Oscar Tshiebwe, and Kyle Filipowski.
Game Analysis
Both teams are currently struggling, with the Hornets coming off three consecutive losses against the Pelicans, Raptors, and Magic. Their scoring has been underwhelming, with no game surpassing 104 points. Meanwhile, the Jazz have also faced three straight defeats, with their last game against the Grizzlies resulting in a 37-point blowout. The Jazz's defense has been porous, allowing an average of 130 points over these contests.
Analyzing the expected starting lineups, the Hornets boast a more balanced offensive and defensive profile, with Mark Williams leading the offensive charge with a rating of 128.6 and contributing an average of 15.3 points per game. Miles Bridges adds significant scoring power with 20.5 points on average. Conversely, the Jazz rely heavily on Collin Sexton's scoring, averaging 18.1 points, but their overall defensive ratings suggest vulnerabilities, particularly with Cody Williams and Isaiah Collier's numbers.
Final Prediction
The Hornets appear to have the edge primarily due to their more consistent scoring and a slightly better defensive setup. A key factor to watch will be how well the Jazz can tighten their defense against the Hornets’ offensive threats, especially given their recent struggles in preventing high scores. The performance of key players like Miles Bridges and Mark Williams could be decisive in determining the outcome.