Each night, the Clarion will choose the top game on the NBA calendar and select a winner. Keep checking out our pick every day, and let us know what you think in our comment section below.
Orlando (5-2) at Charlotte (3-2), 7 p.m.
Coming off an ugly loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, Nov. 8, the Orlando Magic travel to Charlotte to take on the Bobcats in a Southeast Division showdown.
The Magic are without guard Vince Carter and forwards Rashard Lewis and Ryan Anderson, so its clear Orlando’s shooting is currently plagued by injuries and suspensions. Center Dwight Howard has carried Orlando to a solid start as the 23-year-old is averaging 20 points, 11 rebounds and close to 2 blocks a game.
Charlotte owns a 3-0 record at home this season and look to get back on track against the Magic after losing to the Chicago Bulls on Nov. 7. Forward Gerald Wallace is off to a spectacular start, averaging 14 points and 13 rebounds per game. The Bobcats aren’t going to leave an impression on viewers due to their lack of identity, but they have a good team. Coach Larry Brown is molding the talent into a respectable core.
I like Charlotte upsetting the Magic here. Orlando is without a handful of their top shooters and will have to rely on its defense to win. The Bobcats are one of the most athletic teams in the NBA, and I see them running Orlando out of the gym.
Charlotte 105, Orlando 93