Hornets Defeat Nets in Close Contest at Barclays Center
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 7:30 PM ET · Barclays Center
Charlotte Hornets 110, Brooklyn Nets 103, final. Our NBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Charlotte Hornets vs Brooklyn Nets?
Charlotte Hornets beat Brooklyn Nets 110-103 at Barclays Center on October 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Charlotte Hornets vs Brooklyn Nets?
Charlotte Hornets were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -120 (about 55% implied). The favorite won.
In an exciting matchup at the Barclays Center, the Charlotte Hornets edged out the Brooklyn Nets with a final score of 110 to 103. This victory marks the Hornets' second consecutive win over the Nets in their recent meetings, extending their lead in the season series to 2-1. The Hornets came into the game with a 1-0 record for the season, while the Nets were looking to bounce back from their opening loss.
The Hornets have shown a solid performance recently, boasting a record of 6-4 over their last ten games, with an average of 113.4 points scored and 107.1 points allowed. They are currently on a one-game winning streak, having defeated the New York Knicks 110-96 in their previous game. In contrast, the Nets have struggled, holding a record of 3-7 in their last ten outings, with an average of 103.4 points scored and 117.1 points allowed. This loss extends their current losing streak to three games, following a series of defeats against teams like the Toronto Raptors and the Milwaukee Bucks.
At home, the Nets have a record of 3-3, but they have lost their last three games. Their performance at home has been inconsistent, as they have averaged 104.0 points scored and allowed 117.8 points in their last five games. The Hornets, on the other hand, have performed well on the road, boasting a 3-1 record away from home this season. This game was particularly important for the Nets, who were hoping to secure their first win of the season in front of their home crowd.
In terms of injuries, the Nets were without Tyler Bilodeau, who is out due to a shoulder injury. The Hornets faced a more significant challenge, missing several key players, including Kylan Boswell (knee), Kon Knueppel (hamstring), Grant Williams (hamstring), and Coby White (calf). The absence of these players could have impacted the Hornets' depth but did not prevent them from securing the win.
The betting market reflected the close nature of the matchup, with DraftKings setting the odds at CHA -1.5, indicating a slight favor towards the Hornets. The total points line was set at 220.5, suggesting expectations of a moderately high-scoring game. The moneyline odds showed the Hornets at -120, while the Nets were offered at +100, further emphasizing the competitive nature of the fixture.
The game conditions were favorable for both teams, with no significant weather or external factors impacting play. Fans witnessed a competitive atmosphere as both teams battled for an early season victory. Key moments in the fourth quarter included a crucial three-pointer from Keon Ellis, which pushed the Hornets' lead to 104-97, and a running dunk by Moussa Diabate that extended their advantage further. Julius Randle also made significant contributions for the Hornets, scoring consistently down the stretch.
As the game progressed, viewers were treated to a display of skill and determination from both sides. The Nets attempted to rally late in the game, but the Hornets maintained their composure and executed their plays effectively, ultimately sealing the victory. The Hornets' ability to capitalize on their scoring opportunities, despite their injury woes, highlights their resilience and depth as a team.
In conclusion, the Hornets' 110-103 victory over the Nets not only enhances their early season record but also boosts their confidence as they continue to navigate the challenges of the NBA season. The Nets, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their recent struggles as they seek to find their footing moving forward.
What we said beforehand
The Brooklyn Nets will face off against the Charlotte Hornets at Barclays Center on October 21, 2026, in a highly anticipated season opener for both teams. This matchup is particularly interesting as both franchises are looking to establish themselves early in the new NBA season, with neither having recorded a victory yet in this campaign.
The Nets come into this game with a recent record of 3-7 over their last ten games, including a loss to the Toronto Raptors, where they were defeated 136-101. Their last five games show a mixed bag, with two wins and three losses, averaging 104.0 points scored while allowing 117.8 points per game. They have struggled defensively, which is evident in their average points allowed. The Nets will be without Tyler Bilodeau, who is out due to a shoulder injury, which could further impact their performance.
On the other hand, the Charlotte Hornets have had a challenging stretch as well, with a record of 6-4 over their last ten games. They are currently on a one-game winning streak after defeating the New York Knicks 110-96. In their last five games, the Hornets have averaged 112.6 points scored and 108.6 points allowed. However, they will be missing several key players, including Kylan Boswell (knee), Kon Knueppel (hamstring), Grant Williams (hamstring), and Coby White (calf), which could significantly affect their depth and overall effectiveness.
Historically, the Nets and Hornets have met three times in the current season, with the Hornets holding a 2-1 advantage. Their most recent encounter was on March 31, 2026, where the Nets lost 86-117 at home. Earlier in the season, the Nets managed to secure a win against the Hornets with a score of 116-103 on December 2, 2025. This recent history suggests a competitive rivalry, although the Hornets have had the upper hand lately.
In terms of home and away performance, the Nets have a home record of 3-3, while the Hornets have been more successful on the road with a 3-1 record. The Nets have struggled at home, and their recent form does not inspire confidence. The Hornets, despite their injury woes, will look to capitalize on this advantage.
The betting lines from DraftKings indicate that the Hornets are favored by 1.5 points, with a total set at 219.5. The odds for the over are -112.0, while the under sits at -108.0. The moneyline shows the Nets at +105.0 and the Hornets at -125.0, reflecting the market's belief in the Hornets' ability to secure a win despite their injuries.
Conditions for the game are expected to be typical for a late October evening in Brooklyn, with fans eager to see how both teams will respond to the pressure of the season opener. Viewers should watch for how the Nets adjust their strategy in the absence of Bilodeau and how the Hornets cope without their key players. This matchup promises to be a compelling start to the NBA season, showcasing the resilience of both teams as they look to set the tone for the months ahead.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | CHA -1.5 | 220.5 o -112 / u -108 | Charlotte Hornets -120 · Brooklyn Nets +100 |
Injury report
- Tyler BilodeauOutShoulderBrooklyn Nets
- Kylan BoswellOutKneeCharlotte Hornets
- Kon KnueppelOutHamstringCharlotte Hornets
- Grant WilliamsOutHamstringCharlotte Hornets
- Coby WhiteOutCalfCharlotte Hornets
Leaders
- PointsJulius Randle33Brooklyn Nets
- AssistsJulius Randle7Brooklyn Nets
- ReboundsJulius Randle8Brooklyn Nets
- PointsGrayson Allen21Charlotte Hornets
- AssistsNaz Reid7Charlotte Hornets
- ReboundsNaz Reid11Charlotte Hornets
Recent form
Brooklyn Nets
Last 10: 3-7Streak L3103.4 scored · 117.1 allowed per game3-3 at home
- L101-136at Toronto RaptorsApr 12
- L108-125at Milwaukee BucksApr 11
- L94-123vs Indiana PacersApr 9
- W96-90vs Milwaukee BucksApr 7
- W121-115vs Washington WizardsApr 5
- L107-141vs Atlanta HawksApr 3
- L86-117vs Charlotte HornetsMar 31
- W116-99vs Sacramento KingsMar 29
- L99-116at Los Angeles LakersMar 28
- L106-109at Golden State WarriorsMar 26
Charlotte Hornets
Last 10: 6-4Streak W1113.4 scored · 107.1 allowed per game3-1 away
- W110-96at New York KnicksApr 12
- L100-118vs Detroit PistonsApr 10
- L102-113at Boston CelticsApr 8
- W122-108at Minnesota TimberwolvesApr 5
- W129-108vs Indiana PacersApr 3
- W127-107vs Phoenix SunsApr 2
- W117-86at Brooklyn NetsMar 31
- L99-114vs Boston CelticsMar 29
- L114-118vs Philadelphia 76ersMar 28
- W114-103vs New York KnicksMar 26
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Atlanta | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Charlotte | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Orlando | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| Miami | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| Toronto | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Philadelphia | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Brooklyn | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| New York | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
| Boston | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
Box score
| Stat | Charlotte Hornets | Brooklyn Nets |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 41-92 | 36-80 |
| Field goal % | 45 | 45 |
| Three-pointers | 15-48 | 12-31 |
| Three-point % | 31 | 39 |
| Free throws | 13-15 | 19-25 |
| Free throw % | 87 | 76 |
| Rebounds | 43 | 38 |
| Offensive rebounds | 14 | 11 |
| Defensive rebounds | 29 | 27 |
| Assists | 25 | 22 |
| Steals | 9 | 7 |
| Blocks | 4 | 4 |
| Turnovers | 20 | 22 |
| Team turnovers | 1 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 1 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 1 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 26 | 21 |
| Fast-break points | 12 | 8 |
| Points in the paint | 48 | 44 |
| Fouls | 23 | 25 |
| Largest lead | 10 | 7 |
| Lead changes | 7 | 7 |
| Time in front | 81 | 17 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter70-70Noah Clowney makes 2-foot running dunk (Michael Porter Jr. assists)
- 3rd Quarter72-70Ryan Kalkbrenner makes alley oop dunk (Dennis Schroder assists)
- 3rd Quarter72-71Nolan Traore makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter72-72Nolan Traore makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter75-72Grayson Allen makes 24-foot three point jumper (Naz Reid assists)
- 3rd Quarter78-72Grayson Allen makes 31-foot running pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter80-72Naz Reid makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter80-73Moritz Wagner makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter80-74Moritz Wagner makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter83-74Naz Reid makes 24-foot three point jumper (Ryan Kalkbrenner assists)
- 3rd Quarter83-75Julius Randle makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter83-76Julius Randle makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter83-77Julius Randle makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter83-79Noah Clowney makes 1-foot driving dunk
- 3rd Quarter85-79Dennis Schroder makes 12-foot driving floating jump shot
- 3rd Quarter86-79Dennis Schroder makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter86-81Julius Randle makes 10-foot turnaround jump shot
- 4th Quarter86-84Julius Randle makes 25-foot three point jumper (Mikel Brown Jr. assists)
- 4th Quarter89-84Royce O'Neale makes 25-foot three point jumper (Moussa Diabate assists)
- 4th Quarter92-84Sion James makes 25-foot three point jumper (Christian Anderson assists)
- 4th Quarter92-86Michael Porter Jr. makes 1-foot layup (Keon Ellis assists)
- 4th Quarter92-88Day'Ron Sharpe makes tip in dunk
- 4th Quarter94-88Naz Reid makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter94-90Michael Porter Jr. makes 4-foot driving floating jump shot (Keon Ellis assists)
- 4th Quarter96-90Dennis Schroder makes 3-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter97-90Dennis Schroder makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter98-90Dennis Schroder makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter100-90Dennis Schroder makes 1-foot two point shot (Ryan Kalkbrenner assists)
- 4th Quarter100-92Michael Porter Jr. makes 2-foot layup (Julius Randle assists)
- 4th Quarter102-92Dennis Schroder makes 1-foot two point shot (Naz Reid assists)
- 4th Quarter102-94Julius Randle makes 4-foot two point shot (Noah Clowney assists)
- 4th Quarter104-94Naz Reid makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter104-97Keon Ellis makes 23-foot three pointer (Julius Randle assists)
- 4th Quarter106-97Moussa Diabate makes 1-foot running dunk (Dennis Schroder assists)
- 4th Quarter106-99Julius Randle makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter106-100Julius Randle makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter109-100Grayson Allen makes 25-foot three point jumper
- 4th Quarter109-101Julius Randle makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter109-103Michael Porter Jr. makes running dunk (Keon Ellis assists)
- 4th Quarter110-103Brandon Miller makes free throw 2 of 2
Win probability
Above the line favours Brooklyn Nets, below favours Charlotte Hornets.
Venue
- Barclays CenterBrooklyn, NY
- Attendance17548
- OfficialsScott Foster, Dedric Taylor, Gina Catanzariti
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These two, other days
- Nets Defeat Hornets 114-104 at Barclays CenterNov 4, 2026
- Nets Dominate Hornets in Season OpenerOct 6, 2026
- Hornets Defeat Nets 117-86 at Barclays CenterMar 31, 2026
- Nets Defeat Hornets 116-103 at Barclays CenterDec 1, 2025
- Hornets Dominate Nets in Season OpenerOct 22, 2025