Toronto Raptors vs Charlotte Hornets

At this point, it’s almost comical how poorly the Toronto Raptors are executing their supposed "tank." Despite rotating players in and out of the injury report and pulling key contributors late in close games, they just can’t seem to lose enough.

Since mid-January, the Raptors have been playing above .500 basketball (16-15). While they struggle against top-tier teams, they’re simply too skilled and too well-coached to keep losing to teams that are actually tanking.

And let’s be real—every team should be tanking. Have you seen Cooper Flagg’s performance in the Sweet 16?

The Charlotte Hornets, on the other hand, are fully embracing the tank. Since February, they’ve managed just six wins, and scoring has been a major issue—especially with LaMelo Ball sidelined (which he is for this game).

Post-All-Star break, Charlotte ranks last in offensive rating and points per game (104.6) and 29th in effective field goal percentage. That’s a dream scenario for the Raptors, who have been elite defensively—leading the NBA in defensive rating since the break.

That’s why I’m leaning toward the Under on the Hornets’ team total of 106.5. Charlotte has stayed below this number in five of their last six games, while Toronto has held opponents under it in five of their last nine.

The Hornets aren’t trying to win. The Raptors are locking teams down. Give me the Under 106.5 on Charlotte’s team total.

The Toronto Raptors have had an up-and-down season, frequently alternating between wins and losses. Their recent 10-game performance reflects this inconsistency, with an even split of five victories and five defeats. The team is in a rebuilding phase, currently ranking in the lower half of the league in both offensive and defensive categories.

One of their standout strengths is defense, which has helped limit opponents' scoring. Additionally, their rebounding game is a key advantage, averaging 45.2 rebounds per game—8th best in the league. Notably, Toronto's home crowd is known for creating an intense atmosphere that can put significant pressure on visiting teams. However, it remains uncertain if Quickley and Poeltl, who have missed several games, will be available for this matchup.

On the other hand, the Charlotte Hornets have struggled throughout the season and remain near the bottom of the standings. Sitting second-to-last in the Eastern Conference, they have little hope of improving their position, trailing Brooklyn by five games. Over their last ten matchups, Charlotte has secured just four wins. Their offense has been underwhelming, averaging only 105.8 points per game (28th in the league), but their defense has been relatively solid, allowing 115 points per game, placing them 15th.

Much like Toronto, the Hornets are strong on the boards, grabbing 45.1 rebounds per game—good for 10th in the league. Despite their struggles, Charlotte has a roster filled with young talent capable of delivering surprises. There are no new injury updates, with Mann, Williams, and Miller still sidelined.