The Orlando Magic turned in a dominant NBA score on Friday night, defeating the Charlotte Hornets 121-90 to secure the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Led by Paolo Banchero, who scored 25 points, Orlando took an early lead and continued that momentum.
The team built a 35-point lead in the first half, effectively deciding the outcome of the play-in tournament before the break.
According to ESPN Research, the 31-point margin marks the largest win in play-in tournament history.
Franz Wagner added 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. Contributed 16 points in efficient shooting.
Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs also scored in double figures.
LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 23 points, most of which came after the outcome was already beyond doubt. Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller added 15 and 14 points, respectively.
The Magic will now take on the Detroit Pistons in a best-of-seven first-round series starting Sunday.
Charlotte’s playoff drought continues, now stretching to 10 seasons, as Orlando looks to advance beyond the first round for the first time since 2010.
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