The Charlotte Hornets will make the short trip to take on the Washington Wizards on Sunday, in a Southeast Division showdown that pits two Eastern Conference teams with very different trajectories this season. The Hornets have become a playoff contender this season by playing well lately, while the Wizards remain one of the worst teams in the NBA. Here, I break down this contest and you'll find my Hornets vs Wizards prediction below.
Our Hornets vs Wizards Pick
Pick: Wizards +11.5 ATS PRO
Confidence: 2 out of 5
Game Snapshot
Matchup: Charlotte Hornets @ Washington Wizards
Date & Time: Sunday, February 22, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
Venue: Capital One Arena, Washington, District of Columbia
Broadcast: NBA League Pass
Key Storylines
The Hornets have been playing better basketball of late, showing growth as a team despite recent losses and maintaining a winning record over a recent multi-game span. Charlotte has dropped three of its last four games, but those came against elite opponents in the Rockets, Pistons, and Cavaliers.
The Wizards have managed to string together a couple of wins in a row over the Indiana Pacers and enter this game with momentum. But they are facing a tougher opponent here.
Injuries will significantly impact Washington’s rotation, with several starters out, making bench contributions and role players key factors.
Key Players
Hornets:
LaMelo Ball: The Hornets’ floor general provides scoring and playmaking, averaging around 19 points and 7.3 assists per game. His ability to create offense for himself and teammates is central to Charlotte’s success.
Kon Knueppel: Contributes additional scoring and has been one of the most impressive rookies in the NBA throughout the season.
Wizards:
Kyshawn George: One of Washington’s key offensive options, George averages around 15.5 points per game and adds playmaking and defensive effort, though the supporting cast’s inconsistency limits his overall impact.
Alexandre Sarr: When available, Sarr provides rebounding and interior scoring with about 17.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, injecting athleticism in the paint.
Sharife Cooper: Comes off the bench to score efficiently and facilitate offense, providing a spark in limited minutes as Washington’s season nears its conclusion.
Stat Comparison
Stat
Charlotte Hornets
Washington Wizards
Points per Game
115.4
112.5
Points Allowed per Game
113.7
122.7
Team Field Goal %
46%
46%
Rebounds Per Game
46.0
43.6
Assists Per Game
26.4
25.5
Head-to-Head & Betting Trends
The Hornets are 3-0 against the Wizards so far this season.
Charlotte is 34-23 against the spread heading into this contest.
Washington is 24-31 against the spread this year.
Hornets vs Wizards Model Projection
Score Projection: Hornets 116 – Wizards 110 ATS PRO
Win Probability: Hornets 74%, Wizards 26% ATS PRO
Final Thoughts
The Hornets should be able to win this game on the road and get back on track after a few recent losses. But I'm going to take the points with the Wizards on their home floor, as the Hornets aren't at full strength and could let the Wizards hang around in this contest.
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