Hornets Look to Keep Season Alive Against Magic in Play-In Game

Charlotte favored by 3 points as they try to advance to NBA playoffs

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:52pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the action of a basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant teal, purple, and orange hues, capturing the intensity and energy of the playoff-caliber matchup.The Hornets and Magic clash in a high-stakes Play-In tournament matchup, with both teams desperate to keep their playoff hopes alive.Greenville Today

The Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic will face off in a crucial NBA Play-In game tonight. The Hornets are favored by 3 points as they look to keep their season alive, having won the last 3 matchups between the teams by an average of 20 points. However, both teams' star players have struggled recently, with the Hornets' Rookie of the Year candidate shooting poorly and the Magic's franchise player also in a slump.

Why it matters

This Play-In game is a win-or-go-home situation for both teams, with the winner advancing to the NBA playoffs. The Hornets are looking to build on their recent success against the Magic, while Orlando is hoping their star can find his shooting touch to pull off the upset.

The details

The Hornets' Rookie of the Year candidate has been off his game lately, going just 2-for-12 from the field and 0-for-6 from 3-point range in the team's Play-In win over the Heat earlier this week. The Magic's franchise player has also struggled, shooting just 14-for-44 from the floor and 0-for-10 from deep in his last two games. Both teams will be looking for their stars to step up in this crucial matchup.

  • The game tips off tonight at 8:00 PM ET.
  • The Hornets have won the last 3 meetings between the teams, winning by an average of 20.3 points per game.

The players

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets are the home team and are favored by 3 points in this matchup.

Orlando Magic

The Magic are the visiting team and will be looking to pull off the upset on the road.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of this game will advance to the NBA playoffs, while the loser's season will come to an end.

The takeaway

This Play-In game between the Hornets and Magic is a high-stakes matchup, with both teams' star players struggling to find their rhythm. The Hornets' recent dominance in the series gives them the edge, but the Magic will be fighting to pull off the upset and keep their season alive.