Hornets and Magic on the Edge: Which Team Will Seize the Final Playoff Spot?

Hornets vs. Magic, 7:30 ET

I’ve put out a play on every Play-In Game so far, and I’ve gone 2-2. That isn’t me bragging, of course. That’s a losing record. But what I will tell you is that I told everyone who read or would listen that the NBA Playoffs are spectacular. They are every year, and this beginning to the “fringe” playoffs has been no exception. Four games, three of them had close results. With the 8th seed on the line, let’s see how to play the Hornets vs. Magic.

The Hornets shocked the Heat and won their game in overtime. I feel like this needs a full breakdown for anyone who missed it. To begin, let me just mention that the game was tied for 14% of the game, and the Heat were leading for 44% of the game, while the Hornets were leading for 42% of it. That’s how close the game was. In addition, neither team had a larger lead than eight at any point. In the final two minutes of the game, the Heat were up six. Neither team scored until Miles Bridges hit a three to pull Charlotte within three. The Heat hit one free throw to put them up four. Then Brandon Miller drained a really deep three with 18.6 remaining. After intentionally fouling Tyler Herro, who hit both free throws, the Hornets had to get another three. Inbounds pass to Coby White, who turns, sets his feet, and drains a tough, contested triple in the corner. Tie game, Herro misses his attempt. Overtime. In overtime, the Hornets had the momentum, but a couple of dumb plays from LaMelo Ball late in the game gave the Heat a chance. Ultimately, Ball gets to redeem himself with a layup to capture the lead. Davion Mitchell drives down the court and is blocked on his layup attempt. Game over.