NBA Play-In Games Set: Heat-Hornets, Magic-76ers Matchups

Miami and Orlando clinch play-in spots as regular season concludes

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:36am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstracted NBA basketball game, with the players' figures broken down into overlapping angular shapes in a vibrant color palette.The NBA's play-in tournament sets the stage for high-stakes matchups between several top Eastern Conference contenders.Boston Today

The NBA regular season has concluded, and the play-in tournament matchups are now set. The Miami Heat will face the Charlotte Hornets, while the Orlando Magic will take on the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference play-in games.

Why it matters

The play-in tournament determines the final two playoff spots in each conference, adding an extra layer of drama and excitement to the end of the NBA season. These matchups feature several high-profile teams and players vying for a chance to make the playoffs.

The details

The Heat and Hornets will square off in one play-in game, with the winner earning the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Meanwhile, the Magic and 76ers will battle for the 8th seed. Both games will be single-elimination, with the losers facing elimination from the postseason.

  • The play-in tournament games will take place on April 16, 2026.

The players

Miami Heat

An NBA team based in Miami, Florida that clinched a play-in tournament spot after a strong regular season.

Charlotte Hornets

An NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina that also earned a play-in tournament berth.

Orlando Magic

An NBA team based in Orlando, Florida that secured a play-in spot after a late-season surge.

Philadelphia 76ers

An NBA team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that will face the Magic in the other Eastern Conference play-in game.

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What’s next

The winners of the Heat-Hornets and Magic-76ers play-in games will advance to face the #5 and #6 seeds in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

The NBA's play-in tournament continues to add intrigue and drama to the end of the regular season, with several high-profile teams and players fighting for the final playoff spots in each conference.