Clippers Face Hornets in Charlotte as Pacific Division Race Heats Up

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Los Angeles Clippers (27-20) will take on the Charlotte Hornets (12-32) at Spectrum Center on Friday, January 31, in a matchup that could have significant implications for the Pacific Division standings. The Clippers, currently trailing the Los Angeles Lakers by half a game, are looking to close the gap with a strong performance on the road.

The Clippers enter the game on a positive note, having won three of their last four games. Point guard James Harden, recently named to the All-Star team, will be a key player to watch. Meanwhile, the Hornets are struggling, having lost their last two games, including a 104-83 defeat to the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday. The absence of star guard LaMelo Ball, who sprained his ankle in their previous game, has further weakened Charlotte’s lineup.

According to Covers.com, the Clippers are 29-17-1 against the spread (ATS) this season, including a 12-10 ATS record on the road. The Hornets, on the other hand, are 22-20-2 ATS overall and 12-11-1 ATS at home. The Clippers are favored by 14.5 points, with an implied team point total of 113.6, while the Hornets are projected to score 106.05 points.

“The Hornets are missing their most efficient offensive weapon in Ball, which makes it tough for them to compete,” said a sports analyst. “However, they have some value on the spread, especially at home.”

Betting trends suggest the Hornets could cover the spread, as they are 3-2-1 ATS in their last six home games and 4-1 ATS as double-digit underdogs in their last five matchups. The Clippers, meanwhile, are 1-1 ATS in their last two road games and 3-5 ATS in their last eight away from home.

The game’s total is set at 214.5 points, with both teams ranking in the bottom third of the league in pace. The Hornets have gone under the total in four straight games, while the Clippers have alternated between overs and unders in their last eight contests. Analysts recommend betting the under in this matchup.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast live. Fans can also follow live updates and betting trends on NBC Sports and other platforms.