Charlotte Hornets vs Sacramento Kings Prediction & Picks (Moussa Diabate Key Factor): Odds Analysis & Top Props

When the Kings hit the road to face the Hornets, keep an eye on DeMar DeRozan for a solid points and rebounds total over 18.5. He's been in a groove lately, averaging 18.6 points in his last five outings, but what stands out is his ability to elevate his game against Charlotte, where he's dropped an impressive 24 points per game in away matchups against them. DeRozan's rebounding has also been serviceable, pulling down around 4.4 boards in those same contests. With a solid away hit rate of 12 out of 20, his consistency shines through. Plus, the Kings will rely on him to step up, especially in a matchup where scoring is pivotal. Given these stats, he's poised to not just meet but exceed the 18.5 mark, making this prop bet one you won't want to overlook.

LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets) Under 3.5 Threes Made (+114)

As LaMelo Ball gears up to face the Sacramento Kings at home, the smart play lies in taking the under on his threes made at 3.5. While LaMelo has been a sharpshooter lately, averaging 4.6 threes at home over his last five games, there's a twist in the narrative when he squares off against the Kings. Historically, he's netted just 3.2 threes against them, and even more telling, he's managed zero in their last encounter at home. Considering the matchup and his recent stats, he's expected to make around 3.21 threes. With the home hit rate of 9 out of the last 15 games, it's clear that while he can light it up, he's likely to fall short of that 3.5 mark against a Kings defense that focuses on limiting perimeter shots. This makes the under an intriguing opportunity to capitalize on.

Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets) Under 3.5 Threes Made (-106)

As the Charlotte Hornets prepare to host the Sacramento Kings, all eyes will be on Kon Knueppel, but betting on him to hit the over on 3.5 threes might be a gamble. While he's flashed potential this season, his recent form suggests a more restrained performance. Over the last four games, he's only managed to exceed that mark once, hitting the under in 75% of those outings. At home, it's been a mixed bag, with him sinking just four of six attempts from beyond the arc. Given the Kings' defensive focus and their ability to contest shots effectively, it's plausible that Knueppel will find it tough to find his rhythm. With an expected stat value of just 3.13 and hitting the under more often than not lately, taking the under on his threes feels like the smart play in this matchup.