Magic and Hornets Face Off in Crucial Eastern Conference Matchup

Orlando and Charlotte battle for playoff positioning in the East

Mar. 18, 2026 at 6:04am

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The Orlando Magic, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference standings, will take on the Charlotte Hornets, who sit 10th in the East, in an important late-season matchup on Thursday night in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Why it matters

This game has significant playoff implications, as both teams are jockeying for position in the crowded Eastern Conference. A win could help the Magic solidify their spot in the postseason, while the Hornets are looking to climb the standings and secure a playoff berth.

The details

The Magic, led by rising star Paolo Banchero, have put together a strong season and are looking to build momentum heading into the playoffs. The Hornets, meanwhile, have been up and down but have the talent to pull off an upset at home.

  • The game is scheduled for Thursday, March 18, 2026 at 7 p.m. EDT.

The players

Paolo Banchero

The 2022 first overall draft pick and rising star for the Orlando Magic.

Charlotte Hornets

The NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina that is currently 10th in the Eastern Conference standings.

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What they’re saying

“This is a big game for us as we try to lock down a playoff spot. We know the Hornets will be a tough test, but we're ready for the challenge.”

— Paolo Banchero

What’s next

The winner of this game will have a clearer path to the playoffs, while the loser will need to make up ground in the standings over the final weeks of the regular season.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Magic and Hornets is a crucial one for both teams as they jockey for position in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff race. The outcome could have a significant impact on their postseason aspirations.