Orlando Magic defeated the Charlotte Hornets 118-108 on Friday night to secure the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed in the NBA play-in tournament.
Magic’s late surge decides Eastern play-in
Orlando outscored Charlotte 34-22 in the fourth quarter to overcome a 10-point deficit entering the final period. Franz Wagner led the Magic with 28 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter, while Paolo Banchero added 22 points and 12 rebounds. The victory gives Orlando its third consecutive playoff appearance.
Charlotte’s season ends despite strong regular season
Charlotte entered the game having won the season series against Orlando 3-1, with all three victories coming by at least 15 points. LaMelo Ball scored 24 points for the Hornets but shot just 8-of-22 from the field. The loss eliminates Charlotte from playoff contention for the ninth consecutive season.
Warriors edge Suns in Western play-in
In the Western Conference, Golden State Warriors defeated the Phoenix Suns 112-107 to claim the No. 8 seed. Stephen Curry scored 32 points, including 18 in the fourth quarter, while Klay Thompson added 24 points. The Warriors will now face the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.
Who did the Magic face in the first round after winning the play-in?
The Orlando Magic will face the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round of the playoffs.
How many consecutive playoff appearances will the Magic have after this win?
The Magic will have three consecutive playoff appearances following their play-in victory.
