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Charlotte Hornets Look to Get Back in the Win Column Against the Washington Wizards

By Jerry Stephens

Feb 6, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) gets the crowd into the game as he defends against Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) during the second half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 108-104. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 6, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) gets the crowd into the game as he defends against Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) during the second half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 108-104. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Charlotte Hornets will look to get back in the win column when they travel to Washington to take on John Wall and the Wizards for the first time this season.

The Charlotte Hornets (14-11) are set to take on the Washington Wizards (9-14) as they attempt to bounce back and get a win. After two straight losses, the Hornets are in desperate need of a win before their losing streak gets too big. They have started 0-2 on their current five-game road trip with back to back losses to the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Indiana Pacers.

In their last match, the Wizards lost away from home to the Miami Heat. Prior to that game, they were on a two-game win streak as they had won back to back at home against the Denver Nuggets and the Milwaukee Bucks. At the very least, they have confidence at home winning their last two and improving their record at the Verizon Center to 7-6 on the season.

Washington is one of the most disappointing teams in the NBA this season. Experts and fans were expecting big things from John Wall, Bradley Beal, and company but so far they have struggled. They have somewhat turned things around as of late and a big win over a playoff contender in the Hornets could be enough for them to step up in this one. Needing a win, Charlotte should be ready for the Wizards’ best as they look for their first road win since December 5th.

More from Swarm and Sting

Charlotte Hornets @ Washington Wizards

4:00 p.m. EST, Wednesday, December 14th, 2016

Verizon Center

Broadcast on FOX Sports SouthEast

Injury Report:

CHA:

NONE

WAS:

Danuel House Jr. is OUT – missed last 9 games (11/26-12/12) – Right wrist fracture. Injury occurred on 11/23 at practice.

Ian Mahinmi is TBD – missed last 8 games (11/28-12/12) – Sore right knee.

Sheldon McClellan is on NBADL assignment – Assigned to Delware 87ers on 12/6. Missed last 4 games (12/6-12/12).

Biggest Story:

Rebounding

The Charlotte Hornets are one of the best rebounding teams in the league averaging 46 per game which is fifth best in the NBA. Their commitment to defensive rebounding has paid off so far as their dominance on the boards each game has helped lead them to a number of victories.

As for the Wizards, they are only 27th in the NBA in rebounds per game averaging 42.2. It may only be a four rebound differential per game but it makes all the difference. Keep an eye on the gap in rebounds in this one as it could prove to be important.

Best Matchup to Watch:

Kemba Walker vs John Wall

When two all-star level point guards go at it, it is must watch. No difference here as Kemba is having a career season and he is looking to make his name known and dominance felt over other top-level point guards. If he dominates Wall, he could continue to prove that he belongs in the conversation among the best PG’s in the NBA.

Next: Buzz City Beat: Dream Trades and Why Kemba's an All-Star

Washington’s starting point guard is leading his team in both scoring at 23.9 points per game and assists at 9.5 per game. Much like Walker, John’s team will only go as far as he can take them. This match-up will surely have a major impact on the game and could end up deciding the final result.

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