NBA playoffs 2026: Magic make Hornets disappear with 121-90 play-in win, advance to face Pistons
Orlando's defense and hustle overwhelmed Charlotte, leading to a blowout win for the Magic in the NBA play-in tournament.
The Orlando Magic won the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference, demolishing the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA play-in tournament, 121-90. Orlando will now face the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in a first-round playoff matchup beginning on Sunday.
Charlotte was one of the most exciting teams in the NBA, making a surprising run to a play-in berth with an explosive offense. Meanwhile, Orlando was one of the league’s more disappointing teams, having to fight for a play-in spot, rather than finish among the East’s top contenders. Yet Friday’s result looked nothing like that.
Paolo Banchero scored 25 points with five rebounds, six assists, two steals and one block to lead the Magic. Franz Wagner followed with 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. added 16 points (hitting both of his 3-point tries) and six boards.
Wendell Carter Jr dunk, nice pass by Paolo Banchero pic. twitter. com/RFQ5QlhXFX — The Magic Way (@MagicFilmRoom) April 17, 2026 Orlando put the Hornets in a deep hole early with stifling defense and accurate shooting.