“Warriors secure playoff spot” after thrilling play-in victories, as both the Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic punch their tickets to the NBA playoffs. The Magic made light work of the Atlanta Hawks, while the Warriors took down the Memphis Grizzlies in a heart-stopping 121-116 finish.
At Chase Center in San Francisco, the Warriors began the game on the back foot, as Memphis jumped to an early lead, with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the charge. The Warriors quickly responded with a dominating 29-7 run. By the end of the first quarter, they led by 13 points. Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry were scorching, scoring 36 points between them in the first half alone.
The Warriors led by a dominating 20 points at the half, but the Grizzlies rallied. Morant’s injury in the third quarter momentarily slowed down Memphis’ momentum. He injured his ankle but was able to play with a limp.The game was close until the fourth quarter, even though Memphis had the lead at one point. However, Golden State prevailed because to clutch baskets from Curry and Butler.
Curry scored 37 points, while Butler posted a game-high 38 points. With their performance, the Warriors advanced to the Western Conference playoffs as the seventh seed. The Magic easily dispatched the Atlanta Hawks 120-95. Cole Anthony led the charge with 26 points off the bench. The Magic will face the Boston Celtics in the first round.
The Warriors prepare for a tough first-round matchup against the second-seeded Houston Rockets.The Grizzlies still have another chance to secure their playoff spot. They will face the winner of the Dallas Mavericks vs Sacramento Kings play-in game.
Meanwhile, the Hawks now face a do-or-die game. They will play against the Miami Heat or Chicago Bulls for the final playoff spot in the East.
The NBA playoffs are set to begin this Sunday. It’s clear that the road to the championship will be filled with excitement.
Source: CNN
