Recap report: Charlotte Hornets and emerging patterns

Orlando Magic vs Charlotte Hornets

February 5, 2023

Finally in the confines of Spectrum Center, the Hornets looked to end their three-game losing streak against the division rival (and former employer of head coach Steve Clifford) Orlando Magic. This game wasn’t just personal, only the Pistons, Spurs, Rockets, and Hornets have fewer wins than the Magic. That means Orlando, even with rookie of the year candidate Paolo Banchero on the roster, could be in line to draft another number 1 overall pick in July.

Terry Rozier had a big moment early in the game, as he surpassed 7,000 career points. It was a good day for the sharpshooter, as he put up 24 points in the high-scoring affair. With two rotational players out (Mo Bamba and Jalen Suggs) due to a suspension for fighting, the Magic got contributions from everywhere.

Every player that played put up at least six points—including Jonathan Isaac, who was playing only his sixth game of the season following a knee injury that sidelined him for the past two seasons. Ball broke out of his small shooting slump to put up 33 points. His 6/13 from behind the line helped extend his game streak of made 3-pointers to 43.

Unfortunately, this game ended in a similar pattern to the previous ones. The Hornets kept it close but eventually were overtaken late in the contest. The Magic won 119-113.