NBA Game Preview: Orlando Magic (34-38) vs. Charlotte Hornets (18-53)

March 24, 2025

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The upcoming NBA game between the Orlando Magic and the Charlotte Hornets promises to be an intriguing Eastern Conference matchup.

Season Performance: The Magic are currently 11th in the Eastern Conference, fighting to keep their play-in hopes alive. They’ve been in decent form, winning five of their last eight games, including a commanding 118-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in their most recent outing.
Strengths: Orlando has shown resilience despite injuries to key players like Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony. Their defense has been a standout, ranking 4th in the league in defensive rating.
Key Players:
- Paolo Banchero: The star forward is averaging 25.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, leading the team in scoring.
- Franz Wagner: A versatile scorer, averaging 24.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.
- Anthony Black: Providing valuable contributions off the bench, averaging 9.0 points and 6 assists in recent games.
Recent Form: The Magic have been shooting efficiently, with a 49% field goal percentage in their last game, and have shown the ability to dominate in the second half of games.

Season Performance: The Hornets have had a disappointing season, sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. They’ve lost four of their last five games, including a 122-105 defeat to the Miami Heat in their most recent outing.
Strengths: Despite their struggles, Charlotte has a few bright spots, including LaMelo Ball’s playmaking and Miles Bridges’ rebounding.
Key Players:
- LaMelo Ball: Leading the team with 25.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game.
- Miles Bridges: A consistent contributor, averaging 20.9 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
- Mark Williams: A force in the paint, averaging 15.4 points and 10.0 rebounds per game.
Recent Form: The Hornets have struggled with turnovers, committing 20 in their last game, which has been a recurring issue throughout the season.

Season Series: Orlando leads the season series 3-0, including a dominant 125-110 victory in their last meeting on February 21, 2025.
Recent Form:
- Magic: Averaging 104.8 points per game while allowing 106.1, showcasing their defensive prowess.
- Hornets: Averaging 105.8 points per game while allowing 114.0, highlighting their defensive struggles.

Orlando’s Defense vs. Charlotte’s Offense: The Magic’s top-tier defense will look to contain LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges, who have been the Hornets’ primary offensive threats.
Rebounding Battle: Mark Williams’ dominance on the boards will be tested against Orlando’s frontcourt, led by Banchero and Wagner.
Turnovers: Charlotte’s ability to limit turnovers will be crucial, as Orlando’s defense thrives on forcing mistakes.