Grizzlies: Contributor score predictions vs. Charlotte Hornets

If there’s a team to be compared closely to the Memphis Grizzlies, it’s the Charlotte Hornets. Not only are the two teams in the same region, but the franchises themselves are among the youngest in the NBA. The Hornets were founded in 1988, while the Grizzlies were added to the league in 1995.

Even fast-forwarding to the present day, both of these young franchises are moving in a similar direction. While Memphis has Ja Morant as their young key player, the Hornets are lagging slightly behind with LaMelo Ball.

On Wednesday night, these teams will go head-to-head in FedEx Forum in a game that has some of the most exciting young players in the game.

Can the Memphis Grizzlies establish themselves as the better young team? Our contributors weigh in.

Jack Williams (Site Expert): Much like Memphis, Charlotte is a young, inexperienced team. As we’ve seen with this Grizz team, the squad tends to be all over the place in the context of a single season. The Hornets are no different. Because of that, this game could realistically go either way. That said, after a 5-2 start, Charlotte has lost its last five games, three of which came by at least 30 points. Momentum has an impact in the NBA and Memphis is the team with the momentum here.

Memphis Grizzlies 119, Charlotte Hornets 114

Jacob Ellerbee: An exciting matchup between two of the brightest young point guards in the NBA will be sure to feature a ton of highlight-worthy plays. Hayward and Bridges will be tough assignments– they’re athletic and can play multiple positions and score from all three levels. This may be a get opportunity for Brandon Clarke to continue showing why he belongs in the rotation.

Memphis Grizzlies 113, Charlotte Hornets 107

Noah Hancock: The Hornets are struggling on their current road trip (losing 5 straight) which could be good or bad for the Grizzlies. On one hand, the Hornets have struggled to close out games, while the Grizzlies have risen to close out their close games. I think we will see the same here. I expect to see a fun a back and forth match-up from a hungry Hornets team but ultimately see Memphis pull out a win from another amazing step-up performance from the Grizzlies bench. Here me when I say: We will see another 30+ pt game from Ja Morant.

Memphis Grizzlies 108, Charlotte Hornets 102