After a big comeback win Sunday night, the Charlotte Hornets failed to complete the two-day sweep of the Orlando Magic. The Magic came out on top, 108-117 Monday night. Things were looking good for the Hornets in the first quarter but quickly unraveled after that.
The Hornets were out to a hot start offensively and defensively against the Magic. The Hornets lead 30-19 at the end of the first quarter and held the Magic to 6-23 from the field. The Hornets went cold in the second, as the Magic trended in the opposite direction.
Orlando finished the game 19-37 from the three-point line, as Nikola Vucevic and Cole Anthony led the charge offensively. Vucevic led the Magic in scoring and rebounding with 28 pts. and 12 rebs.
The Hornets were led by Gordon Hayward and Terry Rozier, who both finished with 24 points. Hayward continues to have all-star performances every night, while the Hornets still need to find a second in command.
The Hornets never had an answer for the hot three-point shooting from the Magic. Not that the Magic needed any help, but they were left with many open looks from three. The Hornets have to buckle down the perimeter defense to win games in this league.
The Hornets do not have a lot of time to think about this one, as they are back in action Wednesday night against the Indiana Pacers. Ending the losing streak Sunday was great, but the Hornets must be careful not to fall back into old ways after the loss to the Magic. Their issues remain glaring, but I’m not ready to count this team out yet. There is plenty of time left in the season for the Hornets to make a splash.