Hornets Look to Clinch Playoff Spot Against Magic

Charlotte aims to secure 8th seed in Eastern Conference matchup

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:59pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game between the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic, with the players and court broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes of vibrant teal, purple, and orange colors.The Hornets and Magic battle for the final playoff spot in the East in a geometrically deconstructed clash of colors and shapes.Today in Orlando

The Charlotte Hornets (44-38) will travel to Orlando to take on the Magic (45-37) in a crucial Eastern Conference matchup on Friday, April 17, 2026. The Hornets enter as 3-point favorites as they look to clinch a playoff berth, while the Magic hope to defend their home court and secure their own postseason spot.

Why it matters

This game has major implications for the Eastern Conference playoff race, with both teams vying for the 8th and final playoff spot. The Hornets have a chance to solidify their position, while the Magic are fighting to keep their season alive. The outcome could determine which team makes the playoffs and which team's season ends.

The details

The Hornets are led by their high-powered offense, averaging 116 points per game and shooting 46% from the field. They've been paced by their 3-point shooting, connecting on 37.8% of their attempts. Defensively, Charlotte has been solid, ranking 7th in the NBA in points allowed per game. The Magic have also had a strong season, posting a 45-37 record. They score 115.7 points per contest and have been effective on the glass, pulling down 43.4 rebounds per game. Defensively, Orlando has been middle-of-the-pack, allowing 115.1 points per game.

  • The game will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST.

The players

Charlotte Hornets

An NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina that competes in the Eastern Conference.

Orlando Magic

An NBA team based in Orlando, Florida that competes in the Eastern Conference.

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What they’re saying

“This is a huge game for us as we look to secure our spot in the playoffs. We know the Magic will be a tough opponent, but we're confident in our ability to get the job done.”

— James Borrego, Head Coach, Charlotte Hornets

“We're excited for the opportunity to defend our home court and clinch a playoff berth. It's going to be a hard-fought battle, but we're ready for the challenge.”

— Jamahl Mosley, Head Coach, Orlando Magic

What’s next

The winner of this game will clinch the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The loser will be eliminated from postseason contention.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Hornets and Magic is a must-win game for both teams as they fight for the final playoff spot in the East. The outcome will have a significant impact on the postseason picture and the futures of these two franchises.