Swarm and Sting
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Charlotte Hornets can’t keep pace, fall to Indiana Pacers

By Evan Birchmore

Nov 16, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) in a time out during the first half against the Indiana Pacers at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 16, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) in a time out during the first half against the Indiana Pacers at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Charlotte Hornets fell on Wednesday evening to the visiting Indiana Pacers by a final score of 125-113.

LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 26 points, while Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 22 points.

With the loss, Charlotte is now 4-12 on the season.

What went right for the Charlotte Hornets?

Kelly Oubre Jr.’s strong night

Kelly Oubre Jr. had a strong all-around game, posting 17 points and 13 rebounds. The 13 rebounds are the most for Oubre in his time with the Hornets. Oubre also grabbed six offensive rebounds, tied for the most of his career.

Another double-double for Mason Plumlee

Mason Plumlee had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, marking his sixth double-double of the season. Of these, four have come in Charlotte’s last five games.

What went wrong for the Charlotte Hornets?

The injury bug bites again

LaMelo Ball appeared to reaggravate his left ankle sprain late in the fourth quarter while going after a loose ball. In his pursuit, Ball accidentally stepped on a fan’s foot, causing his left ankle to twist awkwardly. Ball would immediately head to the locker room and would not return. While the extent of his injury is unknown, this is the latest in what has been an incredibly unfortunate string of injuries for the Hornets.

Closing games remains an issue

Charlotte held a 104-102 lead with five minutes remaining but was outscored by a 23-9 margin over the final stretch of the fourth quarter. After entering the final frame tied at 90, the Hornets were outscored by a margin of 35-23 over the final 12 minutes, marking their worst fourth quarter point differential this season.

Home court woes continue

The Hornets are now 1-6 at home, with their lone win coming in overtime against the Golden State Warriors. Their 14.3% home court winning percentage is the worst in the league.

What is next for the Charlotte Hornets?

Friday, November 18th- at Cleveland Cavaliers (7:30 p.m. ET)

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