CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Interstat) — Two teams on vastly different trajectories will meet Monday night when the Charlotte Hornets host the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center. The Hornets (22-28) enter riding a surge of confidence, having won seven of their last eight games. Forward Brandon Miller has been the catalyst, averaging 24.8 points during that stretch. He is coming off a 26-point, 8-rebound performance in Saturday’s 111-106 win over San Antonio. Conversely, the Pelicans (13-37) have struggled for consistency, though they snapped a two-game skid with a 114-106 victory over Memphis on Friday. Rookie center Derik Queen starred in that win, posting 22 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. His versatile playmaking will be key for New Orleans against Charlotte’s improving defense. Charlotte’s recent success has been marked by offensive explosions, including a 130-93 rout of Philadelphia and a 124-97 win in Orlando last week. The Hornets have averaged 119.4 points over their last eight contests. New Orleans has shown flashes, winning three of its last six, but defensive lapses have been a season-long issue. They will need a collective effort to slow Miller and a balanced Charlotte attack that has seen significant contributions from Moussa Diabate and Collin Sexton. This is the second meeting of the season. The Pelicans won the first matchup 116-112 in New Orleans on Nov. 4, 2025. For Charlotte, a victory would solidify their push toward the play-in tournament picture. For New Orleans, it represents an opportunity to build momentum on the road against a hot team before a daunting upcoming schedule that features Milwaukee and Minnesota. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Monday at Spectrum Center.