Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/19/2024 7:00 PM EST

We have your Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Charlotte Hornets hit the road to face the Washington Wizards.

Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Charlotte Hornets -162 (BetRivers) / Washington Wizards +148 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: 3.5 - Charlotte Hornets -110 (DraftKings) / Washington Wizards -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 223.5 - Under -108 (DraftKings) / Over -110 (Caesars)

Game Info

Date: 12/19/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Capital One Arena (Washington, DC)
TV: MNMT

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

In the past four matchups between the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards, each team has secured two victories, demonstrating a balanced competition. The games were played over the 2023-2024 NBA season, with both teams winning once at home and once on the road. The Wizards have been more successful against the spread, covering in three out of the four games, while the Hornets managed to cover the spread only once. The total points scored in these games have resulted in an even split, with the over hitting twice and the under also hitting twice. This indicates that the games have been relatively unpredictable in terms of scoring, with no clear trend towards high or low-scoring outcomes.

The most recent encounter on March 8, 2024, saw the Washington Wizards defeating the Charlotte Hornets 112-100. In this game, the Wizards were the home team and the favorites, with a point spread of -2.5, which they covered comfortably with a final score spread of -12.0. The Wizards' Kyle Kuzma led the scoring with 28 points, while Miles Bridges of the Hornets scored 32 points. The Wizards shot 49.4% from the field compared to the Hornets' 40.0%, and they also out-rebounded the Hornets 54 to 48. Turnovers were a significant factor, with the Hornets committing 18 turnovers, which provided the Wizards with additional scoring opportunities. The game total of 212 points fell under the over-under line of 225.0.

In the previous games, the outcomes varied, with the Hornets winning a close game on November 22, 2023, by a score of 117-114, where they were the home favorites but failed to cover the spread. Conversely, the Wizards secured a decisive victory on November 8, 2023, with a 132-116 win as the visiting team and favorites, covering the spread by a significant margin. The November 10, 2023, game was part of an in-season tournament, where the Hornets emerged victorious with a 124-117 win, covering the spread as underdogs. These games highlight the competitive nature of the matchups, with both teams having the capability to win both at home and on the road, and the outcomes often influenced by shooting efficiency and turnover margins.

Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards Preview

The Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards are set to face off in what promises to be an intriguing matchup, despite both teams struggling in recent games. The Hornets, who have lost 10 of their last 11 games, are looking to bounce back with the return of their star player, LaMelo Ball. Ball, who recently returned from a calf injury, has been a bright spot for the Hornets, averaging 30.2 points per game and showcasing his playmaking abilities. However, the Hornets face a setback with the potential absence of Brandon Miller, their second-leading scorer, due to a sprained ankle.

On the other side, the Washington Wizards are enduring a challenging season, having lost 19 of their last 20 games. Despite the struggles, head coach Brian Keefe remains optimistic about the team's development. The Wizards have shown glimpses of improvement, particularly in their recent games, and are eager to capitalize on these positive stretches. Jordan Poole has been a consistent offensive threat, leading the team with 20.3 points per game, while Bilal Coulibaly has found his rhythm, scoring 63 points over the last three games.

Both teams have their defensive vulnerabilities, with the Wizards allowing the most points per game in the league and the Hornets struggling offensively, ranking 28th in scoring. However, the Wizards' recent focus on playing faster and improving their defense could make this matchup more competitive. The Hornets, despite their offensive challenges, will look to leverage Ball's scoring prowess and playmaking to exploit the Wizards' defensive lapses.

As the two teams prepare to clash at the Capital One Arena, the game presents an opportunity for both to break out of their respective slumps. With the Hornets aiming to find consistency and the Wizards striving to build on their recent improvements, this matchup could see a high-scoring affair, especially if both teams manage to capitalize on their offensive strengths.

Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards Pick: Total Points Over

As the Charlotte Hornets prepare to face the Washington Wizards, the potential for a high-scoring game is evident, making the over on the total points an enticing pick. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities on the defensive end, which could lead to a scoring surge. The Wizards, in particular, have struggled defensively, allowing the most points per game in the NBA at 123. This defensive frailty presents an opportunity for the Hornets, who, despite their offensive struggles, have a potent weapon in LaMelo Ball. Ball's return from injury has been a significant boost for Charlotte, as he averages 30.2 points per game and is capable of creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.

On the other hand, the Wizards have demonstrated offensive potential, with Jordan Poole leading the charge at 20.3 points per game and Bilal Coulibaly finding his scoring touch recently. The Wizards' focus on playing faster and getting up more three-point shots could further contribute to a high-scoring affair. Additionally, the Hornets' defensive lapses, as evidenced by their ranking of 28th in the league in scoring defense, could be exploited by the Wizards' offensive weapons.

Historically, the matchups between these two teams have been unpredictable in terms of scoring, with an even split between games hitting the over and the under. However, given the current form and defensive issues of both teams, the conditions are ripe for a game that surpasses the projected total. With both teams eager to break out of their slumps and capitalize on their offensive strengths, expect a competitive and high-scoring contest at the Capital One Arena.

Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards Top Player Prop Picks

LaMelo Ball Over 3.5 3Fgm -115 (BetMGM)

LaMelo Ball's return from a calf injury has been a significant boost for the Charlotte Hornets, as he is averaging an impressive 30.2 points per game. His shooting prowess is evident, with Ball attempting nearly 13 three-pointers per game. This high volume of attempts, coupled with his ability to create shots for himself and his teammates, makes the over on 3.5 three-point field goals a compelling pick. The Washington Wizards' defensive struggles, allowing the most points per game in the NBA, further enhance the likelihood of Ball capitalizing on his shooting opportunities. With the Wizards ranking poorly in defensive metrics, Ball's offensive capabilities are poised to shine, making this prop a strong choice.

Jordan Poole Over 3.5 Turnovers +115 (bet365)

Jordan Poole has been a key offensive player for the Washington Wizards, leading the team with 20.3 points per game. However, his aggressive style of play has also resulted in a high number of turnovers. Over the past five games, Poole has taken 80 shots, indicating his central role in the Wizards' offense. This high usage rate often correlates with increased turnover potential, especially against a Hornets team that, despite its struggles, can apply defensive pressure. Given Poole's current form and the Wizards' overall performance, the over on 3.5 turnovers presents a valuable opportunity, particularly with the favorable odds offered by bet365.

Bilal Coulibaly Over 22.5 Points Rebounds Assists -105 (BetMGM)

Bilal Coulibaly has recently found his rhythm, scoring 63 points over the last three games, which suggests a surge in his overall performance. As the Wizards continue to navigate a challenging season, Coulibaly's contributions have become increasingly vital. His ability to impact the game across multiple facets—scoring, rebounding, and assisting—makes the over on 22.5 points, rebounds, and assists an attractive proposition. With the Hornets' defensive vulnerabilities and Coulibaly's recent form, this prop bet offers a promising opportunity for those looking to capitalize on his upward trajectory. The odds provided by BetMGM further enhance the appeal of this selection.