Hawks and Magic Face Off in Crucial Play-In Precursor

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 8, 2025) — The Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic are set to clash tonight at 7 p.m. in a critical matchup that could determine playoff seeding in the Eastern Conference. With the NBA Play-In Tournament approaching, this game carries significant implications for both teams, particularly as the Hawks chase the No. 7 seed, currently held by Orlando.

Trae Young, who has averaged 26.7 points per game against the Magic, is available tonight despite recent concerns over Achilles tendinitis. His presence could prove pivotal as the Hawks look to improve their standing. They enter this game just one game behind the Magic, making this showdown even more intense.

The stakes are high, as both teams vie for a stronger position heading into the playoffs. The Magic currently boast a home-court advantage and have won six of their last eight games, including a recent victory over the Lakers. A win tonight not only solidifies Orlando’s hold on the seventh seed but also allows them to control the head-to-head tiebreaker, as they are scheduled to face the Hawks again Sunday, the final day of the regular season.

“This is a crucial week for both teams,” said Jackson Caudell, a sports analyst covering the Hawks. “The winner tonight will have the opportunity to put themselves in a favorable position for the Play-In game.”

Meanwhile, the Hawks have been struggling with defense, ranking 27th in points allowed per game and 28th in field goal percentage allowed. Coach Quin Snyder emphasized the need for improvement on that end. “If we can tighten our defense, we believe we can compete with anyone in the league,” he stated during a pregame interview.

The Magic’s strong defensive performance has been their calling card all season, ranking first in points allowed. Coach Jamahl Mosley will look to leverage this advantage against the Hawks’ high-scoring offense, which sits fifth in the NBA for points per game but has also been inconsistent.

Injuries and player availability will also shape the game, with the Hawks missing key contributors like Jalen Suggs. The Hawks attribute their recent slide, including a brief losing streak, to inconsistency in player performances. Young has consistently been their top scorer, but other players need to step up to secure a crucial playoff position.

“We expect a physical game,” explained Caudell. “Both teams have something to prove, and fans should expect to see some intense basketball tonight.”

As the Eastern Conference playoffs loom closer, each of these teams knows how critical this game is not just for standings but for momentum. The Hawks hope to capitalise on their playoff experience while the Magic aim to secure their place with strong home court performances. Tonight’s game promises to be a telling chapter in their ongoing rivalry.