As the Denver Nuggets square off against the Charlotte Hornets tonight, the injury bug has bitten both teams to varying degrees. Let's take a look at who might be sidelined and what impact it could have on the matchup.
Hornets hobbled: Charlotte is missing several key players. The biggest blow is the absence of superstar point guard LaMelo Ball, who remains out with an ankle injury. He's the engine that drives the Hornets offense, and his absence will leave a significant scoring and playmaking void. Joining him on the sidelines are Frank Ntilikina (leg fracture) and Cody Martin (knee), further depleting Charlotte's backcourt depth. Center Mark Williams is also questionable with a back issue, which could disrupt their rebounding and rim protection.
Nuggets relatively healthy: Denver comes into the game with a much cleaner injury report. Their only confirmed absence is Vlatko Cancar, who underwent knee surgery and is out indefinitely. However, there is a question mark surrounding Aaron Gordon, who is listed as questionable with a heel injury. His potential absence could affect their defensive versatility and rebounding, but overall, the Nuggets seem relatively healthy and ready to challenge the Hornets.
Impact on the matchup: Despite missing key players, the Hornets shouldn't be underestimated. Miles Bridges and Terry Rozier have the talent to step up and fill the scoring void, while Mason Plumlee can anchor the frontcourt. However, the absence of Ball and Ntilikina will make their ball movement and overall offense less polished. For the Nuggets, Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic remain a potent offensive duo, while Aaron Gordon's presence (if healthy) would bolster their defensive effort.
Prediction: While the Nuggets are favored, the Hornets' fighting spirit and home-court advantage make this a game to watch. Look for Murray and Jokic to carry the offensive load for Denver, but if Charlotte's guards have a big night and Williams is healthy, they could pull off an upset.
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