Charlotte HornetsOpen full analysis
Oklahoma City ThunderOpen full analysis
Charlotte dominated Oklahoma City 124–97 on January 5 at Paycom Center, with the Hornets' offensive firepower overwhelming the Thunder's defense. Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 28 points, while Kofi Knueppel added 23, as the visitors shot 53.2 percent from the field and drained 19 three-pointers compared to Oklahoma City's 11. The Hornets controlled the glass with 52 rebounds and distributed 25 assists, though turnovers plagued them with 21 miscues. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 21 points in a losing effort, as Oklahoma City managed just 36.6 percent shooting and 98.1 offensive rating. Charlotte's second quarter proved decisive—the Hornets outscored the Thunder 34–17 in that frame to establish decisive control. The final margin of 27 points fell well short of the Vegas total of 235.5, reflecting Oklahoma City's defensive struggles (127.8 defensive rating) against Charlotte's balanced attack. The loss marks a concerning stretch for the Thunder as the Hornets' balanced approach and three-point barrage demonstrated the depth required to compete in the Western Conference.
