Paolo Banchero earns redemption in Magic's win over Hornets

Charlotte Hornets guard Sion James (4) defends Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) during the second half of the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Paolo Banchero earns redemption in Magic's win over Hornets

By Mike J. Asti | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 11:52 PM ET

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In earning some redemption and continuing to make a name for himself, Paolo Banchero put on a show on Friday night.

Banchero's performance led the Orlando Magic to a 121-90 win over the Charlotte Hornets, securing an actual spot in the NBA playoffs.

Thanks to a 25-point game from Banchero, the Magic were able to dominate a Hornets team that was riding momentum and fresh off their improbable win on Tuesday. But what happened earlier in the week didn't matter once the ball was tipped off with the right to be the Eastern Conference's eight seed on the line.

Paolo Banchero earned redemption after a tough sooting night against the 76ers

After a pedestrian 31.8% shooting night in a 109-97 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, a defeat that cost Orlando the opportunity to be the seventh seed and face the Boston Celtics in the first round, Banchero stepped up his game three days later with his team's season on the line.

Eyes on the rim.
ONE-HAND HAMMER. https://t.co/X2I27fWPFO pic.twitter.com/zm1BjXiQNq
— NBA (@NBA) April 18, 2026

Banchero was far more efficient against the Hornets, connecting on 9-of-17 from the field and going 2-for-6 from three. He also added five rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block, exerting himself all over the floor.

Banchero stayed a steady constant for a Magic team that disappointed at times

Named an All-Star in 2024, Banchero, 23, put together one of his overall seasons during the 2025-26 campaign. As Orlando disappointed at times, especially following a big offseason that saw the Magic acquire Desmond Bane to provide more help, Banchero matched his second-highest games played total (72) and exceeded his previous career averages in rebounds (8.4) and assists (5.2).

Do your chain hang low? Do it wobble to the flo'? pic.twitter.com/qjihfxJPgx
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) April 18, 2026

Banchero enjoyed the best season of his career in many ways in the 2025-26 campaign

While his points per game mark did drop from last season's 25.9, he only played in 46 games last year. His 22.2 scoring average is closer aligned with his usual production for a fuller season's worth of games.

Now part of the actual playoff field, Banchero and his Magic teammates will now be tasked with trying to upset the East's No. 1 seed in the first round.

Tip-off for the series opener between the Magic and the Detroit Pistons from Little Caesars Arena is set for 6:30 p.m. ET.

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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