Game Overview
On Thursday evening at 7 p.m. EST, the Charlotte Hornets will face off against the Orlando Magic in a matchup within the Eastern Conference. The game will take place in Orlando, Florida. According to the latest odds from BetMGM, the Magic are favored by 6.5 points, with an over/under set at 229.5 points.
Season Encounters
This game marks the third encounter between these two teams this season. In their previous clash on December 27, the Hornets emerged victorious with a score of 120-105. Currently, the Hornets sit at 12th in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 16-28, while the Magic are 7th with a better record of 23-19.
Team Performance
Orlando has demonstrated strength in scoring near the basket, averaging 54.4 points in the paint per game—ranking them third in the conference. Franz Wagner has been instrumental in this offensive effort, recording an average of 11.4 points in the paint. Conversely, Charlotte has struggled against conference rivals with an 11-19 record, though they excel in defensive rebounds, where they rank eighth in the league with 33.2 defensive boards per game, led by Miles Bridges, who contributes an average of 5.2.
When it comes to shooting percentages, the Magic boast a field goal percentage of 46.6%, just shy of the 47.8% that the Hornets permit their opponents. On the perimeter, Charlotte has showcased its three-point shooting ability, averaging 15.1 successful shots from beyond the arc, a notable advantage over the Magic’s allowance of 11.9 three-pointers.
Recent Form
Both teams are seeking momentum as they approach this matchup. The Magic have split their last ten games with an even record of 5-5, scoring an average of 112.9 points while allowing 114.6. The Hornets share an identical win-loss tally of 5-5 over their last ten, with slightly higher averages of 115.1 points scored and only 105.3 points allowed from opponents.
Key Players
Highlighting the individual performances, Desmond Bane leads the way for Orlando with an average of 18.9 points and 4.5 assists per game. Paolo Banchero has also been outstanding recently, averaging 23.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.3 assists over his last ten games. For Charlotte, Bridges is matching Bane with 18.9 points per game alongside 6.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists. Brandon Miller is another key player for the Hornets, contributing 18.8 points per game in his recent outings.
Injury Report
In terms of injuries leading into the game, Orlando’s Jalen Suggs is listed as day-to-day due to a knee issue, while Colin Castleton will be out because of a thumb injury. The Hornets will be without Mason Plumlee, who is sidelined with a groin injury, and KJ Simpson is day-to-day with a hip complaint.
Conclusion
Both teams will be looking to gain ground in their conference standings as they continue their seasons, making this matchup a critical one for playoff positioning.
