Nets vs. Hornets prediction: Brooklyn’s newfound culture will show in preseason

Mike Turay predicts the Brooklyn Nets will cover a 5.5-point spread against the Charlotte Hornets in their preseason opener. He argues Brooklyn's young core has built strong chemistry compared to a reshuffled Hornets squad navigating key injuries and roster changes.

The Nets enter the game featuring debuts for Julius Randle and Michael Porter Jr. under coach Jordi Fernandez, though Mikel Brown Jr. and Joshua Jefferson are ruled out. Charlotte will be without Kon Knueppel, Coby White, and Grant Williams, while Brandon Miller faces limited minutes.