Trail Blazers Aim for Fourth Straight Win Against Struggling Hornets

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Portland Trail Blazers will look to extend their winning streak to four games Friday night as they face the injury-plagued Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. The Blazers, coming off a dominant 101-79 victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday, are seeking their first four-game winning streak since 2022.

Portland’s defense shined in their latest win, holding the Magic to just 34.2% shooting and forcing 19 turnovers. Anfernee Simons, a Florida native, led the Blazers with 21 points. “Our defense set the tone early,” Simons said after the game. “When we play with that kind of energy, we can compete with anyone.”

The Hornets, meanwhile, enter the game with an 11-29 record and a long list of injuries. Brandon Miller, the team’s No. 2 scorer, is out for the season after undergoing wrist surgery. LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges are listed as questionable, leaving the Hornets short-handed. Despite their struggles, Charlotte has won three of their last four games, including victories over strong Western Conference teams.

Mark Williams, the Hornets’ 7-foot center, has emerged as a bright spot, averaging 20.4 points and 12.3 rebounds over his last eight games. “Mark has been phenomenal,” Hornets coach Steve Clifford said. “He’s stepping up when we need him most.”

Portland’s injury report includes Matisse Thybulle, Donovan Clingan (probable), and Deandre Ayton (questionable). The Blazers’ defense, ranked 24th in the league, will need to contain Williams, who scored a career-high 38 points in his last outing.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, with the Hornets favored by 5 points. The over/under is 221 points. The Blazers, who split their two matchups with Charlotte last season, are looking to build momentum as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference.