Despite the Hornets winning three out of four regular-season matchups, Orlando dominated the elimination game from the opening tip. The Magic established a 22-point lead by the end of the first quarter and never trailed, eventually stretching the margin to as many as 35 points.
The secured their spot in the 2026 NBA Playoffs by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 121–90 in a high-stakes Play-In Tournament finale on April 17, 2026. Fri, Apr 17 Magic won! Play-In Tournament Masterclass Orlando Magic v. Charlotte Hornets
: Five Magic players scored in double figures, including Franz Wagner (18 points) and Wendell Carter Jr. (16 points on 6-of-7 shooting). 2025-26 Season Series & Context Despite the Hornets winning three out of four
: Led all scorers with 25 points on 9-of-17 shooting, adding 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Fri, Apr 17 Magic won
The regular-season series favored Charlotte, but Orlando's late-season adjustments proved decisive when it mattered most. Orlando Magic vs. Charlotte Hornets: Game Preview - NBA
: Orlando held Charlotte's high-octane offense to just 34% shooting from the floor and 30% from three-point range.