: Despite the blowout loss, the 2025-26 season was considered a major step forward for Charlotte, who improved from 19 wins the previous year to 44. Playoff Implications
: LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 23 points and 5 assists, but the team's promising 44-win season ended in their largest loss of the campaign. Rookie Brandon Miller added 14 points, including four three-pointers, while Moussa Diabaté anchored the defense with 3 blocks and 8 rebounds.
The secured their spot in the 2026 NBA Playoffs with a dominant 121-90 victory over the Charlotte Hornets in the Eastern Conference Play-In tournament on April 17, 2026. Fri, Apr 17 Magic won! Game Summary: A Play-In Rout
The matchup at the Kia Center was decided early as Orlando built a historic 31-point lead by halftime—the largest in Play-In history. Led by , who posted 25 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds, the Magic systematically dismantled a Hornets team that had struggled to find offensive rhythm throughout the night. Key Highlights and Performance