Washington-wizards vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions October 26th 2025

Charlotte Hornets vs Washington Wizards NBA Preview: Hornets, Wizards Try to Turn Early-Season Positives into Wins

The Charlotte Hornets visit the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on Sunday, October 26, 2025, for Washington’s home opener. Both teams sit at 1-1 and look to build on early-season progress after several rebuilding campaigns.

The Wizards are coming off a 117-107 win over Dallas, powered by a breakout 34-point performance from Kyshawn George. The Hornets, meanwhile, dropped a tight 125-121 game in Philadelphia after leading by 11, despite a near triple-double from LaMelo Ball. Both squads are seeking early consistency within the NBA Southeast Division.

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Line Movement and Betting Odds

The Wizards enter as narrow -1.5 home favorites, with the Hornets at +1.5. Washington’s moneyline is -115, while Charlotte sits at -105. The total is set around 235 points, reflecting both teams’ top-10 offensive pace.

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Matchup Breakdown

Charlotte’s offense has been explosive through two games, averaging 128.5 points (3rd in the league) and shooting 42.3% from deep (2nd). LaMelo Ball has looked sharp, averaging 26.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. Collin Sexton has added consistent scoring from the backcourt, averaging 21 points.

Rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner has been a pleasant surprise inside, shooting a perfect 7-for-7 against Joel Embiid and grabbing seven boards. His development gives the Hornets much-needed interior presence to complement their perimeter-heavy approach.

Washington, meanwhile, continues to find positives under coach Brian Keefe. Kyshawn George’s 34-point, 11-rebound performance in Dallas cemented his growing star potential, while rookie Tre Johnson’s 17-point contribution provided a glimpse of the team’s depth. The Wizards’ bench has played an active role, with 11 players logging minutes in their first two games.

The Wizards average 118.5 points per game and rank among the league leaders in rebounds (52 per game) and three-pointers made (16 per game). Their versatility and improved defense around the perimeter will be crucial against Charlotte’s fast-paced attack.

For divisional insights and early season projections, check the NBA Eastern Conference odds and predictions.

Key Storylines

Hornets’ Offensive Balance
Charlotte ranks among the top five in scoring, shooting, and assists. Their league-best 31.5 assists per game show a team emphasizing ball movement and spacing. Maintaining that tempo without sacrificing late-game execution will be key to stealing a road win.

Wizards’ Youth Movement and Depth
Washington’s home opener will showcase its emerging core. Kyshawn George and Tre Johnson headline a group full of energy and confidence after the Dallas win. The team’s defensive switching and rebounding have quietly improved — factors that could swing the game.

LaMelo Ball’s Leadership
Ball’s evolution as both scorer and facilitator continues. With Brandon Miller (shoulder) questionable, Ball’s control of pace and ability to involve teammates like Sexton and Kalkbrenner will be essential.

Get detailed player futures for Ball and George in the NBA Most Improved Player odds and predictions and NBA MVP odds and predictions.

Injury Report

Charlotte Hornets

• Brandon Miller (shoulder) – questionable
• Cody Martin (ankle) – out

Washington Wizards

• Bilal Coulibaly (wrist) – out
• Corey Kispert (knee) – questionable

For more updates across the division, visit the NBA Southeast Division odds and predictions.

Prediction

Both teams are showing signs of offensive chemistry, but the Hornets’ balanced attack and superior shooting efficiency give them the edge. Expect Charlotte’s spacing and rebounding to create key runs down the stretch, while Washington’s youth and depth keep the game competitive.

Projected Score: Charlotte Hornets 129, Washington Wizards 118
Best Bet: Hornets +1.5
Secondary Lean: Over 235

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