Hornets vs Magic Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/25/2025

Fresh off an impressive 118-106 victory over the Lakers, the Orlando Magic bring their hot streak to the Spectrum Center, where Franz Wagner's recent 32-point explosion and Paolo Banchero's consistent scoring touch could spell trouble for the home team.

The Charlotte Hornets, mired in a rough stretch with four losses in their last five games and plagued by turnover issues, will need more than just LaMelo Ball's playmaking to turn things around against one of the league's stingiest defenses.

The stage is set for an intriguing Southeast Division clash as the surging Magic (34-38) face off against the home team Hornets (18-53), who desperately need to snap out of their recent funk.

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Charlotte Hornets vs. Orlando Magic preview

The Magic roll into Charlotte's Spectrum Center riding high after back-to-back statement wins, including a dominant showing against the Lakers where Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero combined for an explosive 62 points.

Charlotte's recent struggles have been painful to watch, with the team dropping four of their last five games and looking particularly sloppy with ball control - their 20 turnovers against Miami highlighted some serious offensive issues.

While Orlando's been dealing with a depleted roster (missing Suggs, Anthony, and Queen), they've somehow found their groove, with Wagner stepping up as a dual threat, dropping 32 points and nine dimes in their last outing.

The Hornets' Nick Smith Jr. has been a rare bright spot in their recent skid, putting up 19 points in their last game, but the team's league-worst first-quarter scoring (25.3 points) continues to put them in early holes.

It's worth noting that Orlando's defense has been their calling card - they're tops in the league at limiting opponent assists, though their own offense ranks dead last in assists per game.

The Hornets' eight-year playoff drought (the NBA's longest active streak) looms large over this matchup, and their recent Southeast Division record (dropping 14 of their last 15) doesn't inspire much confidence.

This second night of a back-to-back might test Orlando's stamina, but their recent offensive explosion suggests they've found something special in the Wagner-Banchero duo.

Keep an eye on LaMelo Ball, who's been putting up solid numbers despite Charlotte's struggles, though his five turnovers last game highlight the team's broader ball security issues.