The Blazers continue to struggle as they’ve lost seven straight games and are winless in the month of December. Their last three losses have been with guard Damian Lillard back, but his shot has been off as he is just 31.9 percent from the floor since his return. But I think the other key Trailblazers will play well against a Hornets team playing its third straight road game. Play Portland.

The Trail Blazers are 0-6 against the spread and straight up in their previous six home games. Their health has only gotten worse ahead of Friday's matchup with the Hornets, who are likely to get LaMelo Ball back (health and safety protocols) back from a four-game layoff. Despite being shorthanded, Charlotte is 6-1 against the spread in its last seven games. I'll take them on the money line while Portland doesn't have CJ McCollum and several key role players.

LaMelo Ball has been upgraded to probable tonight to return from protocols, so we will take the plunge on the Hornets, who now would be whole other than Ish Smith (sorry to the Smith family but not a huge absence). Portland remains without CJ McCollum, Cody Zeller and Tony Snell. The Blazers are 0-6 ATS in their past six at home.

It’s difficult to read too much into the Hornets performance lately given how decimated their team has been by an outbreak of COVID-19. Their situation is starting to improve, though, with both Terry Rozier and Mason Plumlee back in the fold. Even LaMelo Ball, who is listed as questionable, could make his return for this game. Portland, on the other hand, has lost 10 of their last 11 games with their only win coming against the rebuilding Pistons. Six of those 10 losses came at home. With CJ McCollum (lung) still out, it’s going to be tough for the Trail Blazers to pull out a win.