The Orlando Magic dominated the Charlotte Hornets 121-90 in a play-in tournament rout, securing the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. Paolo Banchero led the way with 25 points as Orlando built a 35-point first-half lead, marking the largest margin of victory in play-in history. The Magic will face the Detroit Pistons in the first round starting Sunday.

Orlando's physical play overwhelmed Charlotte from the opening tip. The Magic led by 31 at halftime, the biggest midpoint advantage in the seven-year play-in era. Franz Wagner added 18 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. shot 6-for-7 for 16 points. Charlotte's LaMelo Ball scored 23 points, 21 in the third quarter, but the game was decided early.

The Hornets missed the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season, extending the NBA's longest active drought. Miles Bridges scored 15 in what could be his final game without a playoff appearance. Orlando, eliminated in the first round the past two seasons, went 2-2 against Detroit during the regular season and will look to break through this postseason.