Fri Mar 28 20:50:00 UTC 2025: **Raptors Favored to Beat Tanking Hornets, Despite Their Own Tanking Attempts**
Toronto, ON – The Toronto Raptors, despite their own attempts at tanking, are favored to win their third consecutive game against the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, March 28th. While both teams are struggling, the Hornets’ commitment to tanking is considered more pronounced than the Raptors’.
Sports analyst Andrew “Taco” Caley predicts a low-scoring game, setting the Hornets’ team total under at 106.5 points. He points to the Hornets’ league-worst offensive rating and scoring struggles, exacerbated by LaMelo Ball’s absence. Conversely, he highlights the Raptors’ strong defensive performance since the All-Star break, leading the NBA in defensive rating. This defensive strength, Caley argues, makes the under on the Hornets’ point total a strong bet.
Caley also offers additional predictions, including Jakob Poeltl scoring over 15 points and Miles Bridges scoring under 22.5 points. He bases these predictions on recent performance and anticipated matchups. While acknowledging the Raptors’ attempts to manipulate Poeltl’s playing time, Caley notes his efficiency when on the court. For Bridges, he anticipates the Raptors’ defense will effectively limit his scoring.
The game, set to tip off at 7:30 pm ET at Scotiabank Arena, is expected to be a clash of contrasting strategies, with the Hornets fully embracing the tank while the Raptors’ efforts remain less convincing, despite their recent defensive success.
First Piper 