Charlotte Looks to Rebound Against Divisional Opponent

Hornets take on the Magic in a Southeastern Division battle.

Author:
Matthew Alquiza
Mar 19, 2024 8:30 AM EDT

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Charlotte Hornets

Injury Report

Charlotte Hornets: OUT - LaMelo Ball (R Ankle), Seth Curry (R Ankle), Cody Martin (L Ankle), Bryce McGowens (R Knee) and Mark Williams (Low Back)

Orlando Magic: None

Game Preview

When I penned the Hornets vs. Grizzlies preview last week, I said something along the lines of "if you take a look at the injury reports, you'll see the story of these team's seasons." Both squads were littered with players listed as questionable, doubtful, or out.

The same trope applies here. If you look at the injury reports, you'll learn everything you need to know about the Magic and the Hornets 2023-24 season.

Orlando is riding high coming into tonight's game. The Magic boast a three game winning streak and sit at fifth place in the Eastern Conference, comfortably out of the play-in tournament. On top of that, they've won for in a row against the Hornets and are looking to make it six of the last seven. The Magic are playing good basketball right now and look to continue that trend against the reeling Hornets.

Key Matchup

Paolo Banchero vs. Miles Bridges

Is this a safe space to say that I really enjoy Banchero's game? The do-it-all forward has taken a leap in status this season with his dominant on-ball play. Banchero combines sick athleticism with a tight handle, solid passing vision, and a solid jumper. He leads the team in points and assists and is .1 rebounds behind Wendell Carter for the lead in that category.

Miles Bridges has his hands full on the defensive end. The fifth year forward is averaging career-highs in points and rebounds, but still leaves much to be desired on the defensive end. Bridges is slightly undersized at the power forward slot and he'll need a superhuman effort to contain the all-star Banchero in Orlando this evening.