Orlando Magic Rout Hornets to Clinch Final Playoff Spot

53 articles · Updated · NBA.com · Apr 18

The Orlando Magic eliminated the Charlotte Hornets with a dominant 121-90 victory in the NBA Play-In Tournament, securing the Eastern Conference's eighth playoff seed.
Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 25 points as the Magic built a 35-point first-half lead and never allowed Charlotte to threaten.
The Hornets' loss extends their playoff drought to 10 seasons, while Orlando advances to face the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round.

Was the Magic's record victory more about their strength or the Hornets collapsing under pressure?

Which young team has a brighter future: the playoff-bound Magic or the overachieving Hornets?

What is the Hornets' key offseason move to finally end their decade-long playoff drought?

Can Orlando's dominant play-in win translate into a real challenge against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons?

Are the Lakers trade rumors a sign the Magic doubt Paolo Banchero can lead them to a title?

Will rookie Kon Knueppel’s record-breaking season make him the true co-star LaMelo Ball needs in Charlotte?