Game Preview: Charlotte Hornets at Indiana Pacers

Looking ahead at tonight's Hornets game in Indiana.

Author:
Ian Black
Nov 4, 2023 1:40 PM EDT

In this story:

Charlotte Hornets

Indiana Pacers

Injury Report

Hornets: OUT Cody Martin (L Knee), James Bouknight (L Knee), Frank Ntilikina (L Tibia)
Pacers: OUT N/A

Game Preview

The Hornets (1-3) are headed to Indiana on Saturday to take on the Pacers (3-2). The Hornets are hoping to right a slow start to the season that includes dropping their matchup on Wednesday against the Rockets, 128-119. The biggest struggle for Charlotte so far this season has been the deep ball, where the team is converting only 30.1% of their 30.8 3-point attempts per game- the second-worst percentage in the league.

Indiana's young core is off to stronger start to the season, including a 109-104 win against the visiting Cavaliers last night. Where the Pacers really excel is with head coach Rick Carlisle's unselfish offensive philosophy. No team in the league is averaging more assists per game than Indiana's 30.8. Coupled that in with the fact that the Pacers turn the ball over at the fourth-lowest rate in the league, the Hornets are going to have to choose their spots carefully against Tyrese Halliburton and company.

Key Matchup: LaMelo Ball versus Tyrese Halliburton

The 2020 draftmates have turned into team-driving difference makers through their young careers. Both players are creative and willing passers, establish the pace for their respective squads, and are looking to make that jump from team centerpiece to full-fledged superstar.

Ball has the flash and the ceiling, but Halliburton is tough and consistent. Whichever player can lead their supporting cast the most effectively in this matchup will be in the driver's seat to decide the game.