Brooklyn Nets vs Charlotte Hornets 21 October 2026 Prediction

Brooklyn and Charlotte both spent years tanking to improve their draft position. Now both are aiming for the postseason. The Nets beat the Hornets 124-90 in a preseason game a few weeks ago. Can Charlotte fare better this time?

Brooklyn Could Contend for a Play-In Spot

Brooklyn's offseason additions are a major reason for that outlook. The Nets added guard Ellis and Moritz Wagner, who is looking to rebound after a quiet season. Julius Randle is the biggest addition. Randle averaged 21.1 points for Minnesota last regular season as the team's second scoring option. His experience should help Brooklyn's younger players as they push for a play-in spot.

Brooklyn won three of four preseason games, with its reserves contributing. The Nets beat Charlotte 124-90, Philadelphia 114-108 and Washington 131-122. Egor Demin helped run the offense and scored 17 points in the final game. He should have a significant role this season.

Brooklyn Predicted Lineup: Brown Jr., Demin, Porter Jr., Randle, Sharpe

Out: Bilodeau (injury)

Manager: Jordi Fernández

Charlotte's Offense Has Struggled in Preseason

In 2025-26, Charlotte played at a fast pace, pushed in transition and scored consistently. The Hornets scored more than 100 points just once in four preseason games. Ball, who drove the pace and supplied 20 points per game, left in the offseason. Veterans Allen, O'Neale and Williams bring experience to a young roster.

Despite its preseason struggles, Charlotte remains a play-in contender. Last season, Charles Lee's team fell short of the playoffs after a 121-90 loss to Orlando. The Hornets also won eight consecutive road games for the first time in franchise history, while Knueppel set a rookie record with 273 made three-pointers.

Charlotte Predicted Lineup: Schroder, James, Miller, Reid, Steinbach

Out: None listed

Manager: Charles Lee

Charlotte Has Won Three of Four Recent Meetings

The teams had different priorities last season, and Charlotte had more to play for. The Hornets won three of their four recent meetings, though Brooklyn took the preseason matchup in early October, 124-90.

Brooklyn vs Charlotte Prediction: Brooklyn Moneyline (1.61)

Main pick: Brooklyn won three of four preseason games, while Charlotte went 1-3. Lee also has to adjust his offense after Ball's departure. The Nets' recent 124-90 win over the Hornets adds to the case for Brooklyn moneyline at 1.61.

Total points pick: Brooklyn ranked last in scoring at 105.9 points per game last season. Charlotte reached triple digits just once in four preseason games. The pick is under 221.5 total points at 1.76.