: Paolo Banchero set the tone early, scoring 25 points to lead all scorers and propel Orlando into the first round.
: The Magic controlled the boards, outrebounding the Hornets 49-34. Top Performers Paolo Banchero Franz Wagner LaMelo Ball Miles Bridges Data sourced from NBA.com and ESPN . Key Storylines NBA PL: Hornets - Magic
The Orlando Magic officially punched their ticket to the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 17, 2026, with a dominant 121-90 victory over the Charlotte Hornets at the Kia Center. Led by a commanding performance from Paolo Banchero, the Magic secured the East's No. 8 seed and ended the Hornets' postseason hopes in blowout fashion. Game Recap: A First-Half Surge : Paolo Banchero set the tone early, scoring
Magic Make Hornets Disappear: Orlando Clinches Playoff Spot in Play-In Rout NBA PL: Hornets - Magic