Two struggling Eastern Conference teams are set to collide in what promises to be a compelling NBA matchup this Wednesday. The Charlotte Hornets, carrying a 4-10 record, will visit the Indiana Pacers, who have managed only one victory in fourteen games, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 19, 2025.
Team Form and Recent Struggles
Both franchises enter this contest desperate to reverse their fortunes. The Indiana Pacers have suffered through eight consecutive defeats, creating one of the most challenging stretches in recent franchise history. Their overall record stands at a dismal 1-13. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets are looking to snap their own three-game losing streak and improve upon their 4-10 standing. The game is scheduled for a 7:00 PM ET tip-off.
Betting Lines and Game Expectations
Despite their similar struggles, sportsbooks see this as a closely contested affair. Charlotte arrives as a slight 1-point favorite over the home team. The point total, or over/under, for the game shows some variation between sources, with figures of 235.5 and 229.5 being reported, indicating expectations for a potentially high-scoring game. Fans can catch all the action live via streaming on Fubo.
Projected Lineups and Key Absences
The starting fives for both teams feature a mix of established veterans and promising young talent. For the Pacers, the expected lineup includes Andrew Nembhard and Bennedict Mathurin in the backcourt, with Jarace Walker and Pascal Siakam at the forward spots, and Isaiah Jackson manning the center position.
The Hornets will likely counter with star point guard LaMelo Ball alongside rookie sensation Kon Knueppel. The frontcourt is projected to feature Sion James, Miles Bridges, and Ryan Kalkbrenner.
However, the injury reports reveal significant challenges for both rosters. The Pacers' list is particularly lengthy, with six players ruled out, most notably star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out with a right Achilles tendon tear. Other key absences include Aaron Nesmith (left knee sprain) and Obi Toppin (right foot stress reaction).
Charlotte is not without its own injury concerns. Brandon Miller, a key offensive weapon, is out with a left shoulder issue. They will also be without Josh Green, Grant Williams, and others, though Tre Mann is listed as doubtful with a sore left ankle.
Rookie Spotlight and Game Prediction
One of the brightest stories in this matchup is the immediate impact of Charlotte's rookie, Kon Knueppel. The fourth overall pick has been a revelation, currently leading the rookie ladder with impressive averages of 17.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. In just 14 professional appearances, he has already notched six 20-point games and two 30-point outbursts, providing a huge boost to the Hornets' offense.
This midweek clash comes after both teams suffered defeats on Monday, with Indiana falling to Detroit and Charlotte losing to Toronto. The desperation for a victory will be palpable on both sides. While the Pacers have the home-court advantage, their extensive injury list and prolonged losing streak make them vulnerable. The Hornets, led by the dynamic duo of Ball and the emerging Knueppel, appear to have a slight edge, but in a game between two hungry teams, expect a fiercely competitive battle until the final buzzer.
