The 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament is set to feature a crucial matchup between the Orlando Magic and the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday evening, with the victor claiming the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. This game is particularly significant as the winner will advance to face the Boston Celtics in the first round of the postseason.

Both teams are heading into the contest with near-identical records this season, as Orlando finished at 41-41 (22-19 at home), while Atlanta ended at 40-42 (19-22 on the road). The two squads have met four times this year, splitting the series. Notably, the Hawks emerged victorious in their most recent encounter on Sunday, winning 117-105, although both teams rested notable starters for that game.

Key Details for the Matchup

• Date & Time: Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Kia Center, Orlando, FL
• Betting Line: Magic favored by 5.5 points (FanDuel)
• Over/Under: 219 points
• Money Line: Magic -239, Hawks +195

The losing team of this matchup will have an additional chance at qualifying for the playoffs, as they will compete against the winner of the upcoming Heat vs. Bulls game for the No. 8 seed.

Injury Updates

As the teams prepare for battle, notable injury news includes Clint Capela (hand) being sidelined for Atlanta, while Trae Young (Achilles’) is listed as probable to play. Young has been a focal point for the Hawks, leading the league in assists this season.

Atlanta Hawks: What to Expect

The Hawks are striving to secure their fourth playoff appearance in five years, buoyed by the offensive prowess of Trae Young. Averaging 24.2 points per game, Young’s recent performances include a high of 36 points against the 76ers. His return to the lineup could prove crucial as Atlanta prepares for this important game against one of the league’s top defenses.

Atlanta’s offense ranks fifth overall, averaging 118.2 points per game, setting the stage for an intriguing clash against Orlando’s top-rated defense, which allows just 105.5 points per game.

Orlando Magic: Defensive Strengths

The Magic have established themselves as a top-tier defensive team, excelling in several key metrics, including blocks, steals, and turnover creation. As they make their Play-In Tournament debut, Orlando will rely heavily on the contributions from stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, both of whom have elevated their scoring this season.

Banchero has been particularly effective in his matchups against the Hawks this season, scoring over 30 points in three of their contests together.

Game Predictions and Insights

Simulations of the Hawks vs. Magic game suggest a lean toward the Under on points, projecting a total of around 213. Importantly, data from betting models indicate that one side of the spread might hit in nearly 60% of the simulations. These predictions add another layer of intrigue to this already tightly contested matchup.

For a detailed analysis and expert selections, visiting platforms like SportsLine is recommended for those interested in placing bets.