Hawks Set for Play-In Showdown After Regular Season Finale Win Over Magic

ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Hawks wrapped up their regular season with a 117–105 win over the Orlando Magic on Saturday night at State Farm Arena. The victory provided a strong send-off before the Hawks travel to Orlando for a high-stakes Play-In Tournament matchup tonight—once again facing the Magic, this time with their postseason hopes on the line.

If the Hawks lose tonight’s game, they’ll return home to host the winner of the Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls Play-In game on Friday. The winner of that contest will earn the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round.

Saturday Night Recap:

The Hawks came out energized in front of their home crowd, setting the tone early with fast-paced offense and tight defense. Vit Krejci ignited the first quarter with a pull-up three and slick assist to Garrison Mathews. Keaton Wallace’s all-around hustle and playmaking helped Atlanta establish a 31–28 lead after the first.

The second quarter brought defensive intensity and momentum swings. Wallace continued to lead the charge with key steals and assists, while Garrison Mathews connected on a deep three to extend the Hawks’ lead. Tristan da Silva and Dominick Barlow delivered highlight plays, including a thunderous alley-oop and clutch midrange jumpers. Despite a few scoring bursts from the Magic, Atlanta held firm, entering halftime with a narrow advantage.

The third quarter showcased high-octane action and key adjustments. Mathews remained hot from beyond the arc, while Wallace and Barlow kept the pressure on with fast-break finishes. Orlando kept pace thanks to timely plays from Anthony Black and Gary Harris, but the Hawks’ defensive rebounding and bench depth helped them preserve the lead heading into the final period.

In the fourth, Atlanta weathered Orlando’s last push. Dominick Barlow and Daeqwon Plowden brought energy off the bench, contributing crucial threes and dunks. The Hawks outmuscled the Magic on the glass and closed out the game with poise, locking in the 117–105 victory.

Next Up:

All eyes now turn to Orlando, where the Hawks and Magic will meet again tonight in a win-or-go-home scenario. A victory secures a playoff spot for Atlanta, while a loss means one more chance on Friday to extend their season.

With momentum on their side and their season hanging in the balance, the Hawks are ready for battle.