As the Philadelphia 76ers prepare to take on the Charlotte Hornets on March 28, 2026, the stakes are high. The Hornets are riding a wave of momentum, having won five straight home games, while the 76ers are looking to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference.
The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET at the Spectrum Center. Currently, the 76ers hold a record of 40-33, placing them seventh in the Eastern Conference, while the Hornets are just behind at 39-34.
A key development for the 76ers is the return of Tyrese Maxey, who has been sidelined for 10 consecutive games due to a finger injury. Maxey suffered this injury in the final seconds of a game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 7, which halted his breakout campaign where he was averaging career-bests across the board, including 29.0 points per game.
Despite Maxey’s return, the 76ers will be missing Johni Broome due to a knee injury, while Kelly Oubre Jr. is questionable with an elbow injury. Liam McNeeley is day-to-day with an illness, and Tidjane Salaun is out with a calf injury.
The matchup is particularly intriguing as both teams have shown offensive prowess, with the 76ers averaging 116.2 points per game and the Hornets slightly ahead at 116.3 points per game. Notably, the Hornets’ scoring is just 0.2 points shy of what the 76ers surrender, which stands at 116.5 points per game.
This game is crucial for both teams as they head into the final two weeks of the regular season. With playoff positions on the line, every game counts, and both teams will be looking to secure a vital win.
As the 76ers aim to bounce back and maintain their playoff position, the Hornets will look to extend their winning streak and improve their standing in the Eastern Conference. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they push towards the postseason.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Maxey’s return impacts the 76ers’ performance and whether the Hornets can continue their impressive home form.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full status of the players listed as questionable or day-to-day, adding an element of uncertainty to the matchup.
