Celtics vs Hornets Picks and Prediction – 11/1/2024

The Friday NBA schedule will tip off with a matchup between the Boston Celtics and the Charlotte Hornets from the Spectrum Center. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The NBA Champion Celtics (4-1) rank second in the league in offensive efficiency and are scoring 125.8 points per game. On Wednesday, Boston erased a 14-point fourth quarter deficit before falling in overtime during a 135-132 road loss against Indiana. 

All-Star F Jayson Tatum nailed a three-pointer to send the game into an extra session and finished with a game-high 37 points. All-Star G Jaylen Brown scored 25 points on 11-for-30 shooting and pulled down six boards. Derrick White added 23 points for the Celtics, who missed 38 of 57 three-point attempts. 

The Charlotte Hornets have split their first four games for first year head coach Charles Lee and have the talent to make the playoffs. The Hornets rank fifth in the league in offensive efficiency and are averaging 118.5 points per contest. 

Tre Mann led five Charlotte players in double figures with 27 points on 10-for-19 shooting in 28 minutes off the bench. Nick Richards contributed 24 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks. LaMelo Ball added 19 points (7-20 FG) and six assists for the Hornets, who connected on 20-for-45 from long distance.

Boston C Kristaps Porzingis is recovering from a foot injury and will not make his season debut until December. The Celtics lack a strong rim presence with Porzingis out and LaMelo Ball will be able to exploit that weakness. Take the Hornets to keep things close and cover at home. Final Score Prediction, Boston Celtics win 119-114.