Pregame Report: Hornets vs. 76ers

The ADSN Pregame Report presented by Dilworth Neighborhood Grille

Coming into tonight's game versus the 76ers, the Hornets look to rebound from a recent road trip that left them 1-3. Charlotte, now two and a half games back from the 8th placed Heat, is in need of answers to their recent slide and to prevent a season sweep by the Sixers.

The Sixers have won four straight games - 7 of their last 10. Their most recent 130-125 win against the Bucks, who currently lead the league (52-18), was the best evidence that they are shaping up to possibly handle a deeper playoff run.

Fortunately, the Hornets will not have to figure out how to handle Joel Embiid who garnered two double-doubles in the last four games - including a forty point, 15 rebound and six assist performance to beat the Milwaukee Bucks and clinch a playoff birth. But they will have to find a formula that doesn't include Tony Parker (OUT-Rest) or Cody Zeller who is out with left knee soreness.

Ben Simmons and Jimmy Butler, however, will be in the lineup for Philadelphia and will be the top assignment for the Hornets defense.

"We don't want to get into a half court slug-fest with them." Hornets coach James Borrego said Tuesday evening.

Tonight's game is the first in a three game home-stand that also includes games versus Minnesota and Boston.