Magic Prep for Play-In Game with Key Starting Lineup Decision

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Magic guard Cory Joseph is set to start for Tuesday’s Play-In Game against the Atlanta Hawks, as reported by Mason Williams of SI.com. With fellow guards Cole Anthony and Anthony Black available, Joseph’s inclusion in the starting lineup highlights the team’s potential strategy to maximize their chances in this crucial matchup.

Joseph, who has started 16 games this season, has averaged 6.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.4 three-pointers in approximately 22.5 minutes on the court with the starting unit. His experience and versatility could be pivotal for the Magic’s success as they aim to secure a playoff position.

In their last outing on April 11, Orlando claimed a 129-115 victory over the Indiana Pacers despite sitting four of its regular starters. Trevelin Queen led the charge with a career-high 25 points, while Anthony Black contributed 21 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. This victory marked the Magic’s fifth consecutive win and showcased the effectiveness of their bench players.

“We followed the plan perfectly. The starters got the rest they needed, and our bench really delivered tonight,” said Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley. His decision to rest key players paid off as the Magic executed their game plan flawlessly.

On the other hand, the Pacers rested all five of their starters after securing home-court advantage for their first playoff series since 2014. Though Bennedict Mathurin led Indiana with 20 points, the team struggled without its main contributors, resulting in a snapped six-game winning streak.

Indiana’s head coach Rick Carlisle experimented with lineups but saw little success as his team failed to find offensive rhythm and defensive cohesion. “Tonight was a tough night for us. We were out of sync,” said Carlisle.

Orlando took control early, tying the first quarter at 29 and then pulling away significantly. A crucial 14-0 run in the second quarter built a commanding 68-39 lead, turning the game into a rout. The Magic shot an impressive 63% from the field in the first half and maintained high shooting efficiency, finishing with a season-best 57.6% overall.

Looking ahead, the Magic will face the Hawks in Atlanta for the play-in tournament, while the Pacers are set to visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on the final day of the regular season.