2025 SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament: Previews and Predictions for Tuesday’s Matchups

The excitement is building as the 2025 NBA postseason kicks off with the SoFi Play-In Tournament! This unique format gives teams a final chance to secure their postseason fate, and Tuesday’s matchups feature the No. 7 and No. 8 finishers in both the Eastern and Western Conferences. Let’s break down the key matchups, players to watch, and predictions for these crucial games.

Eastern Conference: (8) Atlanta Hawks @ (7) Orlando Magic (7:30 p.m. ET, TNT)

The first battle of the day pits the Atlanta Hawks against the Orlando Magic, with both teams looking to secure a spot as the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference. The stakes are high, as the winner will face the Boston Celtics in the first round, while the loser will have another shot at the No. 8 seed against the victor of Wednesday’s Heat-Bulls game.

Regular-Season Results

The regular-season series between these two teams is tightly contested, ending in a 2-2 tie. This level of familiarity sets the stage for an unpredictable showdown.

Key Players to Watch

For the Magic, the duo of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner has been electrifying, combining for an impressive 61.3 points per game against Atlanta. On the other hand, the Hawks depend heavily on their guards, particularly Trae Young, who enjoys stepping up in high-pressure situations. His postseason performance is one to keep a close eye on.

Style Contrast

Expect a distinct contrast in playing styles. The Magic favor a slower, more physical game, ranking last in pace. In contrast, the Hawks play at a faster tempo, which could lead to a fascinating clash of strategies. The grindier the game, the more it may favor Orlando, while a high-paced match could give Atlanta the advantage.

Prediction: Magic

While the Hawks have experience in Play-In situations, going 3-1 historically, the Magic boast a compelling narrative of resilience, having recovered from injuries to key players. With momentum on their side—having won 12 of their last 18 games—Orlando may just edge out Atlanta in this matchup.

Western Conference: (8) Memphis Grizzlies @ (7) Golden State Warriors (10 p.m. ET, TNT)

The nightcap features a thrilling matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Golden State Warriors, as both teams vie for the No. 7 seed in the West. The winner will face the Houston Rockets in the first round, while the loser has a chance for redemption against the winner of the Dallas-Sacramento game.

Regular-Season Results

The Warriors lead the regular-season series 3-1, giving them historical confidence heading into tonight’s game.

Key Players to Watch

Ja Morant will be pivotal for Memphis, bringing his explosive style to the forefront against Golden State’s sharpshooter, Steph Curry. Expect to see a dazzling display of scoring as both point guards will likely dominate the ball and the plays.

Defensive Battle

On the defensive end, keep an eye on Jaren Jackson Jr. and Draymond Green, both of whom are potential Kia Defensive Player of the Year candidates. Their ability to stifle opposing offenses could tilt the balance of the game.

Prediction: Warriors

Despite recent struggles that saw Memphis drop six of their last ten games, the Warriors have shown they can compete at a high level. The return of Jimmy Butler has injected much-needed energy into Golden State. When the stakes are high, expect Curry and his squad to rise to the occasion, making them the favorites for this knockout matchup.

Conclusion

As the Play-In Tournament unfolds, every possession will matter, and fans are guaranteed to see some thrilling basketball. Will the young Magic advance, or can the savvy Hawks pull off the upset? Will the Warriors continue their championship legacy, or can Morant and the Grizzlies create an upset? Tune in Tuesday to witness the drama of the NBA’s Play-In Tournament unfold!

Who do you see advancing? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!