The secured their spot in the 2026 NBA Playoffs by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 121–90 in a high-stakes Play-In Tournament finale on April 17, 2026. Fri, Apr 17 Magic won! Play-In Tournament Masterclass
The regular-season series favored Charlotte, but Orlando's late-season adjustments proved decisive when it mattered most. Orlando Magic vs. Charlotte Hornets: Game Preview - NBA Orlando Magic v. Charlotte Hornets
Despite the Hornets winning three out of four regular-season matchups, Orlando dominated the elimination game from the opening tip. The Magic established a 22-point lead by the end of the first quarter and never trailed, eventually stretching the margin to as many as 35 points. The secured their spot in the 2026 NBA
