Magic Dominate Hawks in Play-In Game, Secure Playoff Spot

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic dominated the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 in the first game of the Play-In Tournament Tuesday night, securing their spot in the NBA playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s seventh seed. Cole Anthony led the Magic with 26 points off the bench, boosting Orlando to a strong offensive performance in front of their home crowd.

Paolo Banchero contributed significantly to the win, finishing with 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. added 19 points and seven rebounds. Anthony Black came off the bench to score 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting in the Magic’s first Play-In Game. The team now prepares for a first-round playoff series against the defending champion Boston Celtics on Sunday.

The Hawks struggled throughout the game, shooting just 38.1 percent from the field and hitting only four of their 21 attempts from beyond the arc. Trae Young led Atlanta with a game-high 28 points before being ejected with 4:47 remaining in the contest after picking up two technical fouls. Georges Niang added 15 points while Onyeka Okongwu contributed 11 points and nine rebounds.

Despite an early lead by the Hawks, who went up 8-4 in the first quarter, the Magic responded with a 17-2 run to take control of the game. Orlando finished the first quarter with a 15-point advantage, leading 32-17. Anthony actively pushed the pace and contributed to the Magic’s solid lead with crucial shots, including multiple three-pointers down the stretch.

Throughout the game, the Magic displayed strong two-way basketball, outscoring the Hawks 41-22 in the fourth quarter. Orlando’s defensive efforts included nine blocks and six steals, highlighting their overall dominance. The Hawks must regroup quickly as they face the winner of the 9th-10th place matchup between the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls in a do-or-die game on Friday.

Tickets for the first round of the playoffs are set to go on sale Wednesday, April 16, starting with a presale at 10 a.m. and general sales available at 1 p.m. Fans can purchase tickets by visiting or calling 407-89-MAGIC.