The Orlando Magic have displayed fluctuating form recently. They have a 50% win rate in their last ten games, with five wins and five losses. While competitive, their victories have often been narrow, and defeats have sometimes been significant. For instance, they lost to the Denver Nuggets by 11 points and were 12 points behind against the New York Knicks, indicating a lack of consistent offensive output and struggles in crucial moments. The Charlotte Hornets present a more stable performance. They've secured four wins in their last ten games, resulting in a 40% win rate. However, their point spread ratio is at seven tenths, suggesting a preference for controlling the tempo of the game and maintaining overall control. They have recently achieved important victories against the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards, showcasing their ability to adapt strategies during critical points in the game. In head-to-head matchups, the Hornets have demonstrated stronger determination and teamwork. To overcome their current level, the Magic need to improve their defensive intensity and establish a better offensive combination to weaken the opponent's strong areas. The Hornets, on the other hand, need to maintain their well-functioning defensive system and enhance their outside shooting accuracy. In this evenly-matched situation, the victor will likely be determined by which team executes their game plan more effectively. Match: 12-27 08:00 Orlando Magic vs. Charlotte Hornets Betting direction: Under 230