UPDATE: The Orlando Magic are set to face the Charlotte Hornets tonight at 7 p.m. ET at the Kia Center, marking a pivotal moment for the team as they look to regain momentum in the 2025-26 NBA season. After a significant 123-107 victory over Charlotte on October 30, the Magic aim for another win against a struggling Hornets squad.
Orlando entered the season with high expectations but stumbled to a 1-4 start. However, the earlier victory over the Hornets propelled the team to a remarkable run, winning 11 of their next 15 games. Now, with a record of 17-13, the Magic hope to harness the energy of their home crowd after more than two weeks on the road.
Injuries have plagued the Magic, with key players sidelined. Rising star Franz Wagner is out with a left high ankle sprain, while defensive anchor Jalen Suggs is recovering from a left hip bruise. Additionally, Tristan da Silva and reserve Goga Bitadze are also unavailable due to injuries. The team is anxiously awaiting the return of backup center Moe Wagner, who has been absent for over a year after tearing his ACL.
Coach Jamahl Mosley faces the challenge of rallying his squad against the Hornets, who hold a 10-20 record. The Magic’s recent performances have highlighted a troubling trend of relinquishing double-digit leads, notably in their previous games against the Nuggets, Jazz, and Trail Blazers. Orlando led by as much as 14 points against Denver last week before ultimately falling short, a concern Mosley must address.
As the Magic prepare for back-to-back games, they face an equally tough opponent in the Denver Nuggets, who will visit Orlando the following night. This back-to-back schedule adds to the urgency of tonight’s game, as the Magic strive to secure a victory before hitting the road again for another three-game stretch.
The scene is set for an intense matchup at the Kia Center, where the Magic will look to capitalize on home court advantage. The stakes are high, and the team is determined to regain its winning form as they head into the critical holiday stretch.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Magic attempt to build on their earlier success against Charlotte and prepare for the formidable Nuggets. Tune in tonight for what promises to be an electrifying evening of basketball!
