Some may not realize this, but the Orlando Magic clinched home-court advantage for all potential play-in tournament games with their victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday. The win also secured the Southeast Division title for Orlando.
Despite the achievement, the Magic, currently the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference, must still win a play-in game to earn an official postseason berth. The team’s success comes despite significant challenges, including extended injuries to key players Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs, as written by Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel.
“[I’m] extremely proud of this group,” coach Jamahl Mosley said. “Just being able to endure through all the things — the injuries, the bump back, guys in, guys out — and still come away getting the division and giving yourself a chance at a secured seventh [seed] for the opportunity to get into the playoffs.
“I’m proud of our group for that, for being as tough as they are, resilient as they are to continue to push through no matter the circumstance.”
Orlando is set to face either the Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, or Miami Heat in the play-in tournament on Tuesday. A victory would secure the seventh seed, setting up a first-round playoff matchup against the Celtics.
The Magic’s ability to navigate adversity has positioned them for a potential postseason run, a significant step for the young squad.
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