Charles Barkley Bullish on 2026 Charlotte Playoff Berth

NBA legend predicts Hornets will make playoffs despite current record

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

NBA legend and analyst Charles Barkley is adamant that the Charlotte Hornets will make the 2026 NBA Playoffs, despite the team's current 19-28 record and 11th place standing in the Eastern Conference. Barkley cited the strong play of young stars like LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel, as well as veteran Collin Sexton, as reasons for his optimism about the Hornets' playoff chances.

Why it matters

The Hornets have not made the playoffs since 2016, and Barkley's bold prediction goes against the team's current struggles. If the Hornets can rally and make the playoffs as Barkley forecasts, it would be a major boost for the franchise and its fanbase, who are eager to see their team return to the postseason.

The details

The Hornets are currently 19-28, trailing the Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls for the final play-in tournament spot in the Eastern Conference. However, Barkley believes the team's young core, led by All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball, along with breakout seasons from Brandon Miller and rookie Kon Knueppel, will propel Charlotte into the playoffs. The Hornets have also played strong defense lately, ranking 10th in the league in defensive efficiency since November 28th.

  • The NBA season is currently at the halfway point.
  • Barkley made his playoff prediction for the Hornets on ESPN on January 29, 2026.

The players

Charles Barkley

A former NBA player and current basketball analyst for ESPN, known for his outspoken and often controversial opinions.

LaMelo Ball

The Hornets' star point guard, averaging 19.1 points and 7.6 assists per game this season.

Brandon Miller

A standout Hornets player this season, averaging 20.5 points per game.

Kon Knueppel

A rookie for the Hornets who was recently selected to the NBA Rising Stars game, averaging 18.8 points per game.

Collin Sexton

A veteran guard for the Hornets, averaging 13.7 points per game and shooting nearly 40% from three-point range.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Change it, the Hornets are gonna be in the playoffs”

— Charles Barkley

“The Hornets are gonna be in the play-in, guaranteed”

— Charles Barkley

What’s next

If the Hornets can continue their strong defensive play and get consistent production from their young core, they will have a chance to make Barkley's prediction a reality and earn a playoff berth for the first time since 2016.

The takeaway

Charles Barkley's bold prediction that the Charlotte Hornets will make the 2026 NBA Playoffs despite their current struggles highlights the team's promising young talent and the belief that they can turn things around in the second half of the season. If the Hornets can rally and reach the postseason, it would be a major accomplishment for the franchise and its fanbase.