The Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, is set to host a compelling NBA Eastern Conference clash on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The visiting Toronto Raptors, firmly in the playoff hunt, will take on a Charlotte Hornets team that has proven to be a tricky opponent at home despite their record.
Team Standings and Recent Form
The Toronto Raptors enter this contest with a solid 22–15 record, placing them fourth in the competitive Eastern Conference. They have been in good form, securing victories in four of their last five outings. However, it is worth noting that this successful run occurred during a homestand, and they now face the challenge of translating that success on the road.
On the other side, the Charlotte Hornets hold a 13–23 record, positioning them 12th in the East. While their season has been a struggle, they have shown flashes of brilliance, most notably by pulling off a stunning upset against the Oklahoma City Thunder as heavy underdogs. This result serves as a clear warning that the Hornets, particularly on their home floor, cannot be taken lightly.
Injury Report: A Crisis in the Frontcourt
The narrative of this game is heavily influenced by significant absences in the paint for both squads. The injury report for January 7, 2025, reveals a depleted frontcourt situation that will force strategic adjustments.
For the Toronto Raptors, the major loss is starting center Jakob Poeltl, who is ruled out with a back issue. Poeltl has been their primary rebounder and interior defensive anchor. Additionally, three two-way players—Hepburn, Lawson, and Martin—are unavailable.
The Charlotte Hornets' situation is even more severe. They will be without multiple key big men: Plumlee (groin), Williams (knee), and Kalkbrenner (elbow). Two-way player Simpson is also out. There is a cloud over star forward Brandon Miller, listed as questionable with a knee issue. However, forwards Salaün and Diabate are probable to play.
This widespread absence of traditional size means both teams will likely adopt a faster, more perimeter-oriented style. The battle will be decided by guard play, three-point shooting, and which team can better control the game's tempo without relying on post presence.
How to Watch, Key Players, and Prediction
Fans can tune in for the 7:00 PM ET tip-off on TSN in Canada and the FanDuel Sports Network Southeast in the United States. Streaming options include the NBA App, FuboTV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV. Radio listeners can follow on TSN 1050, Sportsnet 590, SiriusXM NBA Radio, or Charlotte's 92.7 FM WFNZ.
With the big men sidelined, the spotlight shines brighter on the backcourt and wing players. Brandon Ingram leads the Raptors in scoring, averaging just over 22 points per game. Scottie Barnes remains a versatile two-way force, while RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley provide consistent offensive output. Keep an eye on Scottie Mamukelashvili, who could see increased minutes and production off the bench.
For Charlotte, everything runs through the dynamic LaMelo Ball. If Brandon Miller can suit up, his scoring will be crucial. Young players like Kon Knueppel have stepped up in recent wins and will need to deliver again.
Oddsmakers have installed the Toronto Raptors as a small road favourite, with the spread ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 points. The total points line (over/under) is set around 230 to 232.5. While the Raptors have won more recent head-to-head meetings, the Hornets have a history of covering the spread at home against stronger opponents.
Prediction: Expect a high-scoring, fast-paced game dictated by the guard matchups. Toronto's overall consistency and playoff pedigree should give them a slight edge in a close finish. Final Score Prediction: Toronto Raptors 116, Charlotte Hornets 114.
