The Charlotte Hornets are quietly playing their best basketball this season.

After winning back-to-back games against Orlando and Washington last week, Charlotte heads into Monday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers with two straight wins and signs of continuity. While their 18-28 record still reflects a continued uphill climb, it’s worth noting that the Hornets have climbed to the top of the league in net rating since the start of 2026.

Of course, this recent string of wins for the Hornets has coincided with a more stable starting group and improved defensive rebounding that plagued the team earlier this year. But now, Philadelphia is coming to town short and looking for more stable footing.

The Sixers will be without both Joel Embiid and Paul George, and Philadelphia will be short-handed after a home loss to the Knicks, per a familiar scenario. Even though Embiid dominated early and finished the loss with 38 points, the Sixers collapsed after halftime. A brutal third quarter (just 13 points) turned the game on its head, highlighting the same issues that have dogged them all season.

How the Hornets keep winning

Even with Embiid, the Sixers have struggled to string together four solid quarters. Inconsistency in rebounding, turnovers, and shot creation by non-star players has kept them from winning time and time again. This matchup presents a different kind of challenge for Charlotte than the past two games. The Wizards and Magic have an opportunity to control the tempo, but Philadelphia can’t do that without Embiid or George.

Brandon Miller continues to be a steady force for the Hornets. He is coming off a strong week with a complete performance against Washington, posting 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. LaMelo Ball has also settled into a better rhythm and has better control of the pace. Charlotte did a better job of playing off her reads rather than waiting for something to happen.

Defensively, Charlotte needs to stay disciplined. Philadelphia’s injury situation doesn’t eliminate the risk of a breakdown, and the Hornets’ chance of error will be smaller if the rotation is delayed or second-chance points pile up. Still, confidence is real and the Hornets are playing with confidence right now. It’s not perfect, but this is the most connection I’ve seen in recent months.

Main matchups:

Hornets frontcourt vs. shorthanded Sixers rotation

Certainly, there’s no stopping Embiid. But how the Hornets handle the time around him will define this game. Limiting second-chance points, staying vertical and staying out of foul trouble will all be important. If Embiid’s dominance turns into kick-out threes and extra possessions, it’s going to be a long night for Charlotte.

Note: Due to weather, the NBA announced yesterday that today’s game will end at 3:00 PM ET.

Reporting an injury

Hornets: Out: Mason Plumlee (groin), KJ Simpson (hip) probably: Collin Sexton (hamstring)

Sixers: Out: Joel Embiid (knee), Paul George (knee, injury management)

Expected starting lineup

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