Charlotte Hornets vs Washington Wizards: A Pivotal Eastern Conference Showdown
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Charlotte Hornets will clash with the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena in a significant NBA matchup. The Hornets, currently positioned in the Eastern Conference, are actively competing for a coveted Play-In tournament spot. Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards, situated lower in the conference rankings, are concentrating their efforts on developing younger talent and building for the future.
Recent Form and Season Context
The Charlotte Hornets enter this contest following a challenging stretch, having suffered consecutive losses to playoff-caliber teams like the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers. This downturn comes after a successful run prior to the All-Star break, highlighting the team's fluctuating performance. Notably, Charlotte has already secured three victories over Washington earlier this season, establishing a psychological edge.
However, this particular game presents a unique dynamic due to significant roster absences on both sides. With multiple players unavailable, both clubs are expected to implement shorter rotations and provide increased minutes to younger alternatives. This shift could lead to unpredictable performances and strategic adjustments from the coaching staffs.
Game Details: When and Where to Watch
The Charlotte Hornets versus Washington Wizards matchup is scheduled to tip off at 6:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 22, at Capital One Arena. Television coverage will be provided by MNMT and the FanDuel Sports Network for local viewers. For online streaming, fans can access the game through Fubo and Prime Video platforms, ensuring broad accessibility for audiences.
Expected Starting Lineups
Charlotte Hornets:
- PG: LaMelo Ball
- SG: Kon Knueppel
- SF: Brandon Miller
- PF: Grant Williams
- C: Ryan Kalkbrenner
Washington Wizards:
- PG: Bub Carrington
- SG: Tre Johnson
- SF: Kyshawn George
- PF: Bilal Coulibaly
- C: Tristan Vukcevic
Injury Report and Player Availability
Charlotte Hornets:
- Liam McNeeley: Out (Ankle injury)
- Coby White: Out (Calf injury)
Washington Wizards:
- Justin Champagnie: Day-to-day (Knee issue)
- Tristan Vukcevic: Day-to-day (Hand concern)
- Kyshawn George: Day-to-day (Toe problem)
- Trae Young: Out (Knee and quadriceps injuries)
- Anthony Davis: Out (Finger injury)
- Alex Sarr: Out (Right hamstring strain)
- D'Angelo Russell: Out (Internal issue)
- Cam Whitmore: Out (Recovering from a diagnosed venous condition)
Additionally, the Hornets are dealing with the suspensions of Moussa Diabate and Miles Bridges, resulting from an altercation with the Detroit Pistons earlier in the month. These absences further deplete Charlotte's roster depth.
Game Prediction and Key Factors
The Charlotte Hornets, with only 16 victories in the 2025-26 season and holding the 13th position in the Eastern Conference, view this game as a prime opportunity to regain momentum. Despite recent back-to-back losses that dropped them to the No. 10 seed, the Hornets are well-positioned to bounce back against the struggling Washington Wizards.
A key player to watch is Kon Knueppel, who has demonstrated strong three-point shooting against Washington this season, making five, five, and three shots from beyond the arc in previous matchups. This proficiency could be crucial against a Wizards defense that has shown vulnerabilities in defending the perimeter.
Oddsmakers have established the Hornets as double-digit favorites, reflecting confidence in their ability to secure a win. This victory is particularly important as Charlotte aims to maintain its position in the Eastern Conference play-in race, staving off competition from teams like the Milwaukee Bucks.
Ultimately, this game will test the resilience and adaptability of both teams, with the Hornets seeking to solidify their playoff aspirations and the Wizards focusing on long-term development through their younger roster.
