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Game Preview: Charlotte Hornets at Indiana Pacers

Plagued by injury, the Hornets have lost their last five games.

INJURY REPORT:

HORNETS: Out: LaMelo Ball (ankle), Cody Martin (knee), Frank Ntilikina (tibia) Probable: Gordon Hayward (stomach virus) Doubtful: Mark Williams (back)

PACERS: Out: Jalen Smith (knee), Andrew Nembhard (knee)

GAME PREVIEW:

LaMelo Ball is still on the mend as the Hornets arrive at Indianapolis' Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday to try and log a win against the Pacers.

The mood remains pensive for Hornets fans, however, seeing as how Charlotte lost their last five games — against Toronto, Philadelphia, New Orleans and Miami (two of them). Back on Nov. 4, the Hornets beat the Pacers in a nail-biter, 125-124.

But as to Melo's plight, just as with the Hornets' 2022-23 season, injury runs the game. Promising second-year Charlotte center Mark Williams is likely still out tonight as well, with a low back contusion.

But all is not lost — Hornets journeyman Terry Rozier, rookie Brandon Miller, mainstay P.J. Washington, the spry Bryce McGowens and center Nick Richards are ready to leave it on the floor in the Hoosier State.

The game will air at 7:00 PM EST on Bally Sports Southeast.

KEY MATCHUP: Terry Rozier vs Tyrese Haliburton

The two starting point guards will each get a chance to shine as Rozier looks to make up the slack for his team — undoubtedly, something he excels at.

But Terry will have his work cut out for him with Haliburton, who was initially listed as doubtful for the Pacers' last game against the Clippers before he became available and started the game, ending up with 8 points and 11 assists.

Predicted Starting Fives

HornetsPacers

PG

Terry Rozier

Tyrese Haliburton

SG

Brandon Miller

Buddy Hield

SF

Gordon Hayward

Bruce Brown

PF

P.J. Washington

Obi Toppin

C

Nick Richards

Myles Turner

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