Play In Day 1

Atlanta vs. Orlando - On paper, the Magic have the better team, but I'm not one to bet against the Hawks. It seems as though Orlando always falls short of expectations, so I'm not quick to jump on the bandwagon. I am a huge fan of Wagner's game and think he can help a lot of teams in this league win. This game comes down to whether Atlanta can keep them out of the paint or not. With Capela and Johnson both out, and the latter done for the season, we will see who steps up for the Hawks to help control the paint against a team whose two best players live down there. If they do have someone step up and protect the paint, I expect them to pick up the win tonight against the Magic.

Memphis vs. Golden State - This is the game that everyone wants to see. I have no idea why Memphis is a 6.5-point underdog in a game that will most likely be decided in the fourth quarter. Ja has been in the headlines recently and has been playing very well to end the season, with Scottie Pippen Jr. coming into his own as a great option off the bench as well. They will be missing a key player, Jaylen Wells, who suffered a nasty injury last week against the Charlotte Hornets. On the other hand, Golden State has looked like a completely new team this season since they made the trade to acquire Jimmy Butler. If they are hitting their shots, they can beat anyone in the league on any given night. The thing is that they are winless in the Play-In tournament, with a 0-3 record all time. So for this one, you will either be going against Steph or history; either way, we should be in for a great nightcap tonight.

Role Players To Watch - 

• Scottie Pippen Jr 

• Brandin Podziemski 

• Dyson Daniels 

• Zaccharie Risacher 

• Tristan Da Silva