National Basketball Association

Preview: Raptors (5-2) at Hornets (6-1)

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The NBA season is still relatively young, but tonight’s game Raptors-Hornets appears to be a precursor of the playoffs.

The Charlotte Hornets have stepped smartly into the season, with a sparkling record which loses a few bubbles when examined more closely. They have done what they should do against punching bags like Brooklyn and Philadelphia, but dropped their only bragging-rights game against the Celtics.

The Toronto Raptors are fresh off a defeat of the OKC Thunder, despite playing shorthanded. But Charlotte has always proven a thorn in the side of Toronto; they lead the lifetime series 40-29, even though they have floored some hideous teams over the years. In the lockout-shortened 2011-12 season, Charlotte managed a 7-59 record, for a crisp .106 winning percentage. I have to give you the link so you’ll believe me.

However, the Hornets look pretty solid to me. I forecast them for 43 wins, and won’t be surprised if they exceed that.

3 Keys to Victory for Toronto

Next: 3 Hornets who can sting

3 Charlotte players to watch

Apr 5, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) looks to play a ball as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) tries to defend during the second quarter in a game at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Conclusion & Final Score

While I was greatly heartened by the performance of the Raptors’ rotation players on Wednesday, I think we’re wishing on a star for such results to become the norm.

I suspect we’re going to see a low-scoring game.

Raptors 96 – Hornets 93

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