Orlando Magic crush Hornets in play-in game to secure Eastern Conference’s 8 seed and playoff spot

The Orlando Magic delivered a dominant NBA scoreline on Friday night, routing the Charlotte Hornets 121-90 to secure the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed.

Led by Paolo Banchero, who scored 25 points, Orlando raced into an early lead continuing that momentum.

The team built a 35-point advantage in the first half, effectively deciding the play-in tournament result before the interval.

According to ESPN Research, the 31-point margin marks the largest victory in play-in tournament history.

Franz Wagner added 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. contributed 16 points on efficient shooting.

Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs also chipped in with double figures.

LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 23 points, most of which came after the result was already beyond doubt. Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller added 15 and 14 points respectively.

The Magic will now face the Detroit Pistons in a best-of-seven first-round series starting Sunday.

Charlotte’s playoff drought continues, now stretching to 10 seasons, while Orlando will look to progress beyond the first round for the first time since 2010.