Trail Blazers Secure Fourth Straight Win with 102-97 Victory Over Hornets

Anfernee Simons leads Portland with 27 points as Charlotte struggles without key players LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges.

Anfernee Simons scored 27 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter, to help the Trail Blazers pull away late against the Hornets.
Jerami Grant contributed 22 points, while Deni Avdija added 18 points and rookie Donovan Clingan grabbed 13 rebounds for Portland.
The Hornets, missing LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller, struggled offensively, shooting just 37.6% from the field and 29% from three-point range.
Portland's defense was key, holding Charlotte to 43 second-half points and limiting their shooting efficiency, continuing their strong defensive performances on back-to-back nights.
The Trail Blazers now return home to face the Thunder on Sunday, while the Hornets prepare to host the Pelicans on Saturday as part of their nine-game homestand.