The Orlando Magic are headed to the playoffs after dominating the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 in Tuesday’s Play-In Tournament showdown. Cole Anthony erupted for 26 points off the bench, fueling a statement win that sends Orlando to a first-round clash with the Boston Celtics.
Paolo Banchero added 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. chipped in 19 points in a balanced offensive effort. Anthony Black also impressed, scoring 16 points on near-perfect shooting (6-of-7) as the Magic seized control early.
Atlanta’s Trae Young finished with 28 points but was ejected late after picking up two technical fouls in frustration. The Hawks, who relied on the Play-In to reach the postseason in two of the last three years, now face a must-win game Friday against the Bulls-Heat winner for the No. 8 seed.
Orlando’s defense stifled Atlanta late in the first quarter, allowing just two points in the final six minutes. The Magic led by as many as 22 before the Hawks clawed back within three, only to collapse after a critical turnover in the third.
Anthony, who battled injuries all season, delivered his best performance yet, shooting 10-of-17 with four three-pointers. His resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time for Orlando, which split its regular-season series with Boston.
The Magic’s bench outscored Atlanta’s 56-30, with Anthony’s 10-of-17 shooting night headlining the effort.
The Celtics, who rested their starters in last week’s loss to the Magic, will host Game 1 on Sunday.
For the Hawks, another Play-In exit looms if they can’t regroup Friday.
