The Charlotte Hornets (22-35) are set to face the Dallas Mavericks (30-27) on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 8:30 PM ET at American Airlines Center in Dallas. This cross-conference matchup features a struggling Hornets team looking to snap a three-game losing streak against a Mavericks squad pushing for playoff positioning.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have struggled throughout the season, currently sitting near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. Their most recent game resulted in a 128-92 loss to the Golden State Warriors, exposing defensive weaknesses.
LaMelo Ball remains the team’s centerpiece, averaging 20.1 points, 7.8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. Miles Bridges has also provided offensive support, contributing 16.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per contest. However, Charlotte has struggled defensively, allowing 116.8 points per game, ranking 27th in the league.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks enter this contest having won three of their last four games, including a 115-105 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Luka Dončić continues to be one of the NBA’s top playmakers, averaging 28.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game. His backcourt pairing with Kyrie Irving has given Dallas one of the league’s most potent scoring duos.
Defensively, Dallas has improved over recent weeks, allowing 108.5 points per game in their last five contests. Their ability to contain LaMelo Ball and limit Charlotte’s fast-break points will be key in securing a win.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This is the second meeting between the Hornets and Mavericks this season. In their first matchup, Dallas secured a 122-107 victory in Charlotte. Historically, the Mavericks have dominated this series, winning six of their last eight meetings.
Key Players to Watch
- Charlotte Hornets:
- LaMelo Ball – The Hornets’ best playmaker and scorer will need to have a big game to keep Charlotte competitive.
- Miles Bridges – Provides interior scoring and rebounding, but will have a tough assignment against Dallas’ frontcourt.
- Dallas Mavericks:
- Luka Dončić – The heart of the Mavericks’ offense, Dončić’s ability to control the tempo will be crucial.
- Kyrie Irving – A dangerous scorer, Irving has been averaging 24.2 points per game over the last month.
Game Outlook and Prediction
The Mavericks have been playing strong basketball recently, while the Hornets continue to struggle defensively. Dallas’ ability to stretch the floor with Dončić and Irving should create significant problems for Charlotte. The Hornets will need a career night from LaMelo Ball to make this game competitive, but ultimately, the Mavericks should cruise to a comfortable win.
Prediction: Dallas Mavericks 120, Charlotte Hornets 103.
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on Bally Sports Southwest at 8:30 PM ET.
