The Orlando Magic hosted the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Play-In Tournament on Friday, April 17, 2026, with the winner earning the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed and a first-round matchup against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons.
The Magic entered the game seeking a third straight playoff appearance
Orlando had lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in their initial Play-In game on Wednesday, leaving them with one final chance to secure a postseason berth for the third consecutive season. The Magic had advanced to the playoffs in each of the prior two seasons and needed a victory over Charlotte to maintain that streak.
Charlotte aimed to end a decade-long playoff absence
The Hornets had survived their Play-In matchup against the Miami Heat on Tuesday to reach this decisive game, marking their first playoff opportunity since 2016. Charlotte had won the season series against Orlando 3-1, with all three victories coming by at least 15 points, giving them confidence heading into the contest.
For more on this story, see 76ers and Magic vie for Eastern Conference No. 7 seed.
Last time a similar scenario unfolded, the outcome differed
In the previous season’s Play-In Tournament, the Miami Heat secured the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference by defeating the Chicago Bulls, a result that contrasted with Charlotte’s current bid to end their playoff drought.
What was at stake for the winner of the Magic-Hornets game?
The winner advanced to the NBA playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed and faced the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round.
How did the Hornets qualify for this Play-In game?
Charlotte defeated the Miami Heat in their Play-In matchup on Tuesday to reach the final stage against Orlando.