Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic: A Rivalry Rekindled in the NBA
A Brief History of the Rivalry
The Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic rivalry dates back to the early days of both franchises. The two teams first met in the 1988-89 season, and their rivalry quickly escalated. The Hornets and Magic were both expansion teams, and they were both looking to make a name for themselves in the NBA. The two teams played some memorable games in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and their rivalry was one of the most heated in the league.The Rivalry Heats Up
The rivalry between the Hornets and Magic reached its peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Hornets were led by All-Star guard Muggsy Bogues, while the Magic were led by All-Star center Shaquille O'Neal. The two teams met in the playoffs several times during this era, and their games were always intense. The Magic eventually got the better of the Hornets, winning two of the three playoff series between the two teams.The rivalry between the Hornets and Magic has cooled somewhat in recent years, but it is still one of the most heated rivalries in the NBA. The two teams are located in close proximity to each other, and their fans are very passionate about their teams. The Hornets and Magic are both expected to be competitive in the 2022-23 season, and their rivalry is sure to be renewed.
Key Players in the Rivalry
Some of the key players in the Hornets-Magic rivalry over the years include:- Muggsy Bogues (Hornets)
- Larry Johnson (Hornets)
- Shaquille O'Neal (Magic)
- Penny Hardaway (Magic)
- Tracy McGrady (Magic)
- Dwight Howard (Magic)
- Kemba Walker (Hornets)
- LaMelo Ball (Hornets)
The Hornets-Magic rivalry is one of the most storied in the NBA. The two teams have been playing each other for over 30 years, and they have had some of the most memorable games in league history. The rivalry is sure to continue for many years to come, and it is one of the most passionate rivalries in all of sports.
