Orlando Magic Face Atlanta Hawks in Crucial NBA Play-In Game

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic will host the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, in a critical NBA Play-In game where the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference is on the line. The game is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Kia Center and will be broadcast on TNT.

The matchup comes after both teams concluded their regular seasons with contrasting trajectories. The Magic, entering with a record of 41-41, recently faced a setback against the Hawks, losing their last regular season game 117-105. This defeat snapped a five-game winning streak for the Magic, who had fought hard to secure a Play-In spot after a rocky start to their season.

The Hawks are entering the game after clinching a playoff berth with a 40-42 record, having won four of their last five contests. This late-season surge has given Atlanta confidence as they look to secure their spot in the playoffs. “Our team has shown resilience after some tough stretches this season, and we’re ready for this challenge,” said Hawks head coach Quin Snyder.

The underlying narrative of the game will be the battle between rookie sensations Atlanta’s Zaccharie Risacher and Orlando’s Trae Young. Risacher, just 20, has already made a significant impact this season, averaging 12.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game and leading the team in three-pointers with 122. Young, on the other hand, has led the Hawks with impressive stats, including 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game.

“Zach is very smart and aggressive on the court,” Young said. “He has a unique combination of talent and intelligence that sets him apart, and I truly believe he has the potential to be a decisive force tonight.”

The teams have met 139 times in regular-season games since their inception, with the Hawks winning 74 and the Magic claiming 65. The last encounter highlighted the Hawks’ ability to push through adversity, marking their third consecutive win at the expense of Orlando.

Injuries could also play a pivotal role. The Hawks are without forward Jalen Johnson, who underwent season-ending shoulder surgery. Meanwhile, both teams are dealing with several players listed as out or uncertain, which could impact their rotations.

Fans will not only be enjoying the tension of the game but also the significance of this Play-In contest. Victory not only means a chance at playoff glory but also serves as a testament to the teams’ perseverance throughout the season.

As tip-off approaches, anticipation builds among the players, coaches, and fans alike in what promises to be an intense showdown for the Eastern Conference Playoff spot.