Orlando Magic Daily
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Series the Orlando Magic must win to make a run at the Playoffs

By Drew Miller

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 10: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic plays defense during a game against the Chicago Bulls on April 10, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 10: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic plays defense during a game against the Chicago Bulls on April 10, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Charlotte Hornets

Oct. 29 at Charlotte
Dec. 4 at Charlotte
Feb. 14 at Orlando
April 6 at Orlando

We could discuss the practical reasons the Orlando Magic need to beat the Charlotte Hornets. Similar to the Miami Heat, the Charlotte Hornets are fighting for one of the last playoffs spots in the East. The Hornets are likely one of the teams favored to replace one of those fading Eastern Conference teams.

But there is one reason the Hornets stand out.

A certain former Magic center was traded to the Hornets this summer (for a bag of rocks, I might add) this offseason. While every game counts, games against Dwight Howard have a certain importance for the Magic. A win against him increases the morale of players and fans alike.

While controlling the interior against Dwight Howard is important, the most important aspect of this series is the Magic’s defense, especially their efforts to contain Kemba Walker. One of the main reasons the Magic went 0-4 last year against the Hornets was because of their inability to defend the Hornets.

Orlando gave up an obscene 114.8 points per game in the four games with Charlotte last year. Even more concerning is Walker’s production. He averaged 20.3 points per game against the Magic. Elfrid Payton must improve his sputtering defense and will have to shut down Kemba Walker’s playmaking ability for the Magic to win the series.

Igniting the fanbase with wins against the Hornets can help the Magic in the long run and increase fan excitement for the year.