The Brooklyn Nets and Charlotte Hornets are set to clash in their season opener on Wednesday, October 24, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The game will take place at Spectrum Center, starting at 7 p.m. ET. This matchup marks a significant moment for both teams as they look to establish their identities for the new season.
Brooklyn Nets vs. Charlotte Hornets: Season Preview and Odds
In the 2024-25 season, the Brooklyn Nets won the previous series against the Charlotte Hornets 3-1. During the offseason, the Nets focused on rebuilding their roster. They drafted three guards and two forwards in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Additionally, they traded forward Cam Johnson to the Denver Nuggets. This trade included a package that featured forward Michael Porter Jr. and a first-round draft pick for 2032.
The Nets are in a transitional phase, indicating that many players may see significant playing time as the coaching staff assesses their performance.
Charlotte Hornets Prepared for Opener
The Charlotte Hornets are ready for the season opener after drafting forward Kon Knueppel from Duke with the fourth overall pick. The team aims to integrate Knueppel as an effective spot-up shooter, complementing their dynamic guard duo of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Furthermore, the Hornets added experienced guards Collin Sexton and Pat Connaughton to enhance their roster depth.
Previous Meetings and Key Statistics
Last season, the two teams faced each other twice in Charlotte, splitting the series. Notably, both teams were without key players like Ball and Miller during those matchups. The games also featured low scoring, with the “Under” hitting in both contests.
Current Odds from BetMGM Sportsbook
- Moneyline:
- Nets +165 (Wager $100 to win $165)
- Hornets -200 (Wager $200 to win $100)
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- Nets +5.5 (-115)
- Hornets -5.5 (-105)
- Over/Under: 226.5
- Over: -115
- Under: -105
Injury Report
- Nets:
- Haywood Highsmith (knee) – out
- Hornets:
- Josh Green (shoulder) – out
- Grant Williams (knee) – out
Expert Predictions for the Game
Experts predict the Hornets will win, with a final score likely around Hornets 107, Nets 94. However, laying -200 on the moneyline might not be advisable given the stakes. Instead, betting on the spread or the Over/Under is recommended.
The Hornets, when healthy, possess considerable offensive talent. With Ball and Miller leading the charge, they are poised to outperform the struggling Nets. Conversely, Brooklyn’s lack of consistent offensive options and defensive vulnerabilities do not inspire confidence.
Experts lean towards the Under 226.5, as both teams ranked among the lowest in scoring last season, averaging only 105.1 points per game. While improvements are anticipated, neither team has made significant enhancements to justify expectations of significantly higher scoring.
This game is crucial for both teams, setting the tone for their respective seasons. Fans can catch the excitement live on El-Balad.
