Orlando Magic

Magic knocked out of playoff contention with loss to Cavaliers

ORLANDO, Fla. -- To make the Play-In Tournament in the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic had to win its final four games, but they lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-113 Tuesday night at the Amway Center.

The Chicago Bulls also had to lose its final four games to make that happen. The Bulls lost to the Hawks Tuesday, but it didn’t matter because the Magic lost as well. Orlando has officially been eliminated from playoff contention.

Markelle Fultz led the Magic with 23 points. Soon-to-be Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero added 20 points.

Donovan Mitchell scorched Orlando’s defense for 43 points. He is the first player with four straight 40-point games since James Harden in 2019.

The Magic (34-45) host the Cavaliers again on April 6 before visiting the Nets and Heat to wrap up the season.