Indiana at Charlotte

Charlotte started off well last season, but then had a barrage of injuries and COVID-19 problems and ended up in a play-in game and lost to Indiana. Now the Hornets open their season against the Pacers with much optimism and hoping last season's woes are behind them even though Gordon Hayward is recovering from a bout with COVID, but is expected to be ready for the regular season. The Pacers are dealing with some injuries themselves, including Caris Levert, who is out with a back injury. Malcolm Brogdon (shoulder) and Justin Holiday (ankle) are questionable. Rick Carlisle is the new coach after several mediocre seasons guiding the Dallas Mavericks. It's a new season, but the Hornets would like to avenge the humiliating 144-117 loss in the play-in game and Charlotte won and covered the two previous meetings and the Hornets covered 12 of their last 17 as favorites. Take the Hornets.