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Charlotte (1-0) at Philadelphia (1-0)
- When: Oct 25 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: FDSSE
Charlotte vs Philadelphia Preview & Prediction
Spread: Philadelphia -4.5
Moneyline: Philadelphia (-195)
Total: 237.0
It’s youth vs experience, underdogs vs rising stars, and a whole lot of points expected in this early-season showdown. The 76ers look to ride rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe’s historic debut into their home opener, while the Hornets arrive in Philly buzzing after a statement win over Brooklyn.
Philadelphia 76ers Betting Outlook
Philadelphia’s season couldn’t have started with a bigger spark. Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe didn’t just announce his arrival, he detonated onto the scene. His 34-point debut not only broke Allen Iverson’s franchise rookie record but put him in elite company with legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Frank Selvy.
Edgecombe’s fearless performance paired perfectly with Tyrese Maxey’s 40-point explosion in the 117-116 win over Boston. The duo’s energy and tempo have transformed a team that slogged through 58 losses last season into an up-tempo, confident unit.
The lingering question is Joel Embiid’s readiness. After an injury-shortened 2024-25 campaign, he looked rusty in his return, managing just four points on 1-for-9 shooting. But if he shakes off the cobwebs and commands attention down low, Philadelphia’s offense could go from exciting to unstoppable.
Head coach Nick Nurse wants his young backcourt to push the pace, creating space for shooters and forcing opponents to defend 94 feet. The Sixers are quickly becoming a must-watch team and a dangerous one against the spread if this momentum continues.
Charlotte Hornets Betting Outlook
The Hornets came flying out of the gate in their opener, torching the Brooklyn Nets 136-117 and snapping out of last year’s offensive funk. Charlotte, which ranked last in scoring in 2024-25, suddenly looked reborn under new head coach Charles Lee, who has emphasized pace and spacing.
Rookie starters Kon Knueppel and Ryan Kalkbrenner impressed, combining for 21 points and bringing energy to both ends. But it was Brandon Miller’s 25-point, seven-assist outing and LaMelo Ball’s 20-point, eight-assist performance that truly drove the offense.
The Hornets had nine players score in double figures, a stunning reversal for a team that once relied heavily on two-man isolation sets. Lee praised the team’s balance and composure but knows they face a tougher defensive challenge against Philadelphia’s athletic perimeter.
NBA Prediction & Betting Angle
Expect Philly’s guards to set the tone early with relentless pace and scoring versatility. If Embiid contributes even modestly, the Sixers should handle business at home. Charlotte’s offense has improved, but sustaining that kind of production against Philly’s speed and energy on the road is a tall order. Expect effort and flashes, but the Hornets’ defense could struggle to contain Edgecombe and Maxey.
The Sixers’ young stars keep the fireworks going in front of the home crowd, while the Hornets fight hard but fade late under Philly’s pressure.
Final Score: 76ers 124, Hornets 115
Lean: Philadelphia -4.5
Total: Over 237.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
