Hornets vs. Blazers odds, prediction, spread, time: 2026 NBA picks for Saturday, Feb. 28 from proven model
CBS Sports
by
Daniel Lewis
February 28, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Hornets face off in a crucial matchup on Saturday, February 28, as both teams aim to solidify their positions in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Currently tied at 29-31, both squads are on the brink of securing a spot in the postseason. The game will take place at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, with the Hornets listed as a 7.5-point favorite and an over/under of 228.5 points.
Charlotte has been on a strong run, winning 13 out of their last 16 games, while Portland has shown resilience despite missing key players like Deni Avdija (back) and Shaedon Sharpe (fibula injury). Avdija, Portland's leading scorer, is doubtful for the game, significantly impacting their offensive potential. The Blazers' lack of depth could force them to adopt a more defensive approach against the hot-shooting Hornets.
The SportsLine Projection Model has simulated this matchup 10,000 times and predicts that the Under (228.5 points) will hit in over 57% of cases. This forecast is driven by Portland's depleted lineup, which limits their offensive output, and Charlotte's focus on slowing down the game to counteract their own high-powered offense.
The model also highlights a strong edge for one side of the spread, with the Hornets expected to maintain control due to their recent form and home-court advantage. For fans and bettors, this game offers insights into how each team will adapt under pressure, making it a must-watch contest for NBA enthusiasts.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/28/2026