Charlotte Hornets

Fearless predictions: Road will remain an unfriendly for Hornets, especially MKG

Guard Russell Westbrook (0) is the carryover star on an Oklahoma City Thunder team that added Paul George and Carmelo Anthony in the offseason.
Guard Russell Westbrook (0) is the carryover star on an Oklahoma City Thunder team that added Paul George and Carmelo Anthony in the offseason. AP

Five fearless predictions for Monday’s Charlotte Hornets game against the Oklahoma City Thunder:

1. MKG will sure earn his paycheck on this trip

Russell Westbrook Monday, followed by James Harden Wednesday: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will guard both with a day off in-between.

2. Lots more of Treveon Graham

Graham has played quite well since injuries moved him into the rotation two games ago. The Thunder has multitime All-Stars at both forward spots.

3. And lots of switching defensively

The Thunder’s remakes – acquiring Paul George and Carmelo Anthony – haven’t gone so well yet. Both are shooting under 40 percent from the field. Doesn’t mean these guys aren’t still dangerous scorers.

4. Points won’t be easy to find

The Thunder is No. 2 in defensive efficiency, allowing just 0.99 points per opponent possession.

5. Thunder 105, Hornets 97

The shorthanded Hornets are just 1-10 on the road.

Hornets at Thunder

Where: Chesapeake Energy Arena

When: Monday, 8 p.m.

TV/Radio: Fox Sports Southeast /WFNZ 610-AM

This story was originally published December 10, 2017 at 7:31 PM with the headline "Fearless predictions: Road will remain an unfriendly for Hornets, especially MKG."

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