The Washington Wizards defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 118-104, at Capital One Arena on Thursday.

The Wizards (25-29) had to work harder than expected, but in the end, they got past the Hornets (15-41) thanks to an impressive performance in the second half. Washington and Charlotte played a tight game in the opening quarter, however, and the first 12 minutes ended with a 32-31 lead for the Wizards. Charlotte responded with a 30-29 score in the second quarter and things were tied at the break, but the Wizards pulled away for good in the third quarter following a 27-15 score. Washington sealed the deal with a 30-28 score in the fourth quarter as well. With the win, the Wizards moved to 13-12 at home while the Hornets fell to 8-24 on the road.

Kristaps Porzingis led the way for the Wizards with an impressive 36-point, nine-rebound performance that also included two assists and two blocks, while Deni Avdija notched 20 points and 13 rebounds across 37 minutes. Bradley Beal had 17 points and 10 assists, while Delon Wright also dished out 10 dimes and added six rebounds. Daniel Gafford notched 13 points and five rebounds.

P.J. Washington was the leading scorer for the Hornets with 20 points, five rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks, while LaMelo Ball finished with 16 points, six rebounds and four assists. Terry Rozier had 19 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two steals. Gordon Hayward finished with 15 points. Mason Plumlee had 10 points and seven rebounds.