The Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, is set for an intriguing Southeast Division showdown this Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The Charlotte Hornets, holding a 9-20 record, will welcome their divisional rivals, the Washington Wizards, who stand at 5-22, for their second meeting of the season. The game tips off at 7 p.m. Eastern Time.
Game Details and Betting Odds
As the home team, the Charlotte Hornets are favored by 5.5 points in this matchup. The total points line, or over/under, is set at a high 232.5 points. This number is significant as both teams have a tendency to play in high-scoring games. Statistics show the Hornets have exceeded this total in 12 of their 29 games this year. The Wizards, however, have been involved in even more shootouts, surpassing the 232.5-point mark in 18 of their 27 contests.
Expected Lineups and Key Injury Updates
The starting lineups feature several star players, but both teams are grappling with significant injury concerns that could impact the game's dynamics.
Washington Wizards Projected Starters:
- PG: CJ McCollum
- SG: Kyshawn George
- SF: Bilal Coulibaly
- PF: Khris Middleton
- C: Alex Sarr
Charlotte Hornets Projected Starters:
- PG: LaMelo Ball
- SG: Kon Knueppel
- SF: Brandon Miller
- PF: Miles Bridges
- C: Ryan Kalkbrenner
The injury report is lengthy for both sides. For Washington, Alex Sarr (Groin) and Corey Kispert (Thumb) are ruled out. Key players Cam Whitmore (Shoulder), Marvin Bagley III (Calf), and Khris Middleton (Knee) are all listed as questionable. Charlotte's report is equally concerning, with Grant Williams (Knee) out. The status of core players LaMelo Ball (Wrist), Collin Sexton (Quad), and Ryan Kalkbrenner (Elbow) is questionable.
Recent Form and Game Prediction
The Wizards are coming off a 124-113 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday, where rookie Bub Carrington shined with 21 points. Despite the loss, they covered the spread as 14-point underdogs. Their recent form shows a pattern of alternating wins and losses over the last five games, but they have been strong against the spread, going 4-1 ATS in that stretch (though 10-17 ATS for the season).
The Hornets enter on the second night of a back-to-back, having lost a high-scoring affair 139-132 to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday. LaMelo Ball led the team with 23 points. While they have lost two straight, Charlotte has been a reliable bet recently, covering the spread in 5 of their last 7 games and holding a 15-14 ATS record overall.
Given the high over/under and both teams' propensity for offensive games, the total points market will be one to watch. The injuries to key defensive players like Sarr and Williams could lead to an open, fast-paced game. While the Hornets are favorites at home, the Wizards' recent ability to cover the spread makes them a dangerous underdog, especially if Charlotte's key players are limited.
How to Watch: The game will be televised on FDSSE and MNMT. For live streaming, fans can tune in via Fubo.
