Players To Watch
4 min read

Charlotte Hornets Look to Upset Portland Trail Blazers: Nick Smith Jr. Shines in Previous Games

The Charlotte Hornets are gearing up for an exciting matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Spectrum Center. With both teams looking to secure a victory, all eyes will be on the standout players who have been making waves in their previous games.


PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 25: Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets goes up for a shot against Jabari Walker #34 and Dalano Banton #5 (R) of the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at Moda Center on February 25, 2024 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)

One player who has been consistently impressive for the Hornets is Nick Smith Jr. The guard has been a force to be reckoned with, showcasing his skills on both ends of the court. In the last three games, Smith Jr. has averaged 8 points, 1 assist, and 0 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages have been outstanding, with a field goals percentage of 75%, two-point percentage of 100%, and three-point percentage of 67%. His efficiency rating stands at an impressive 7, proving his impact on the team's performance.


Another player to watch out for is JT Thor, a forward who has shown great potential in recent games. Thor has contributed an average of 2 points, 0 assists, and 0 rebounds per game in the last three matchups. While his numbers may not be eye-popping, his defensive presence cannot be overlooked. With his ability to disrupt plays and create turnovers, Thor adds an extra layer of intensity to the Hornets' defense.


PORTLAND, OR - FEBRUARY 25:  Marques Bolden #12 of the Portland Trail Blazers arrives to the arena before the game on February 25, 2024 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images)

Brandon Miller has also made significant contributions to the team's success. The forward has averaged an impressive 21 points, 1 assist, and 7 rebounds per game in the last three outings. Miller's shooting percentages have been solid as well, with a field goals percentage of 35%, two-point percentage of 27%, and three-point percentage of 44%. His ability to score from beyond the arc makes him a valuable asset for the Hornets' offense.


On the other side of the court, the Portland Trail Blazers have their own standout players who will pose a challenge for the Hornets. Anfernee Simons, a guard for the Trail Blazers, has been a consistent performer. In the last three games, Simons has averaged 3 points, 6 assists, and 0 rebounds per game. His playmaking abilities and court vision make him a key facilitator for the team's offense.


PORTLAND, OR - FEBRUARY 25:  Jerami Grant #9 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots a 3-point basket during the game  on February 25, 2024 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images)

Moses Brown, a center for the Trail Blazers, has also been making an impact in recent games. Brown has contributed an average of 9 points, 2 assists, and 6 rebounds per game in the last three matchups. His presence in the paint and ability to grab offensive rebounds provide second-chance opportunities for his team.


With both teams boasting talented players, this matchup promises to be an exciting one. The Hornets will need to rely on their top performers like Nick Smith Jr., JT Thor, and Brandon Miller to step up and make their mark on the game. If they can continue their impressive performances from previous games, they have a chance to upset the Trail Blazers.


The game is scheduled to take place on April 3rd at 7:00 PM Eastern Time at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte. Fans can catch all the action on BSSE, ROOT Sports NW, or ROOT Sports NW+.


In conclusion, the Charlotte Hornets are ready to take on the Portland Trail Blazers in what is expected to be a thrilling matchup. With standout players like Nick Smith Jr. leading the way, the Hornets have a chance to secure a victory against their formidable opponents. However, they will need to bring their A-game as they face off against talented players from the Trail Blazers' roster. Basketball fans won't want to miss this exciting clash between two competitive teams vying for a win at the Spectrum Center.

Rate the article

Related stories

Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers Face Off: Spotlight on LaMelo Ball's Stellar Performance
Players To Watch

Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers Face Off: Spotlight on LaMelo Ball's Stellar Performance

3 min read
Charlotte Hornets vs Detroit Pistons: LaMelo Ball's Stellar Performance Sets Stage for Showdown
Players To Watch

Charlotte Hornets vs Detroit Pistons: LaMelo Ball's Stellar Performance Sets Stage for Showdown

3 min read
Charlotte Hornets' LaMelo Ball Primed for Showdown with Timberwolves
Players To Watch

Charlotte Hornets' LaMelo Ball Primed for Showdown with Timberwolves

3 min read