The Nets are a bit thin in the frontcourt without Nic Claxton and Cameron Johnson. A lack of size might be the difference here because the Hornets were easily outrebounded in their lone loss but won the battle of the boards in their opening win over Atlanta. The Nets have lost the turnover battle in each of the first two games, turning the ball over 34 times and forcing just 19. Brooklyn’s opponents have won the points off turnovers battle, 42-29.

Cam Thomas is never afraid to shoot. With Cameron Johnson (calf) and Nic Claxton (ankle) out, there are more minutes and shot attempts available. Thomas scored 36 points over 25 minutes in his first game of the season, then followed that up with 30 points over 33 minutes in his second game. Over those two games, he attempted a total of 40 shots from the field and 16 free throws. Expect him to be busy again in this matchup.

Brooklyn won't have Nic Claxton or Cam Johnson, two-thirds of its starting frontcourt, as it looks to avoid an 0-3 start. The Hornets got outmuscled by the Pistons last time out, but that shouldn't be an issue versus the Claxton-less Nets. Brooklyn will look to run and shoot 3's, and that's the type of game Charlotte favors. Look for a huge game from LaMelo Ball and back the home dog.

LaMelo Ball is 8 for 32 from the field, having scored 15 and 20 points in Charlotte's two games. I like him to shoot better Monday against a Nets team that ranks 29th in defensive rating, has given up the third-most made 3-pointers per game and is missing Nic Claxton. Look for Ball, who's averaging 17 shot attempts -- including nine three-point tries -- to put up at least 21 points.