Blazers Secure Playoff Spot with Thrilling Comeback, Hornets Advance in Play-in Tournament

The Portland Trail Blazers have secured a spot in the playoffs after overcoming an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Phoenix Suns 114-110. Deni Avdija played a crucial role in the comeback, scoring 41 points, including a decisive three-pointer with 16.1 seconds left. The Blazers will now face the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs as the seventh seed in the Western Conference. In the Eastern Conference, the Charlotte Hornets have advanced in the play-in tournament with a 127-126 overtime win against the Miami Heat, led by LaMelo Ball's 30 points and a winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining. The Hornets will next play the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers' game against the Orlando Magic. The 2026 NBA playoffs will begin on Sky Sports this Sunday, April 19, with four live games scheduled.