NBA Play-In Tournament 2024 was one of the most exciting events of the season, determining the final playoff spots in a high-stakes battle between bubble teams. With star-studded matchups like the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors and the Miami Heat vs. Philadelphia 76ers, this year’s Play-In delivered unforgettable moments.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down:
✔ Key dates and format of the 2024 NBA Play-In Tournament
✔ Matchup previews and which teams had the edge
✔ Expert predictions on who advanced to the playoffs
✔ Impact on the NBA playoffs bracket
By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of how the Play-In shaped the postseason—and why it’s becoming one of the most thrilling parts of the NBA calendar.
What Is the NBA Play-In Tournament?
The NBA Play-In Tournament is a mini-competition that decides the 7th and 8th seeds in each conference before the official playoffs begin. Introduced in 2020, it gives teams ranked 7th to 10th in the standings one last chance to secure a playoff spot.
How Does the Play-In Tournament Work?
The format is simple but intense:
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Game 1: 7th seed vs. 8th seed – Winner gets the 7th playoff seed.
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Game 2: 9th seed vs. 10th seed – Loser is eliminated.
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Game 3: Loser of Game 1 vs. Winner of Game 2 – Winner gets the 8th playoff seed.
This means the 7th and 8th seeds have two chances to advance, while the 9th and 10th seeds must win two straight games to make the playoffs.
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NBA Play-In Tournament 2024: Key Dates
The 2024 Play-In took place from April 16–19, right after the regular season ended. Here’s the full schedule:
Eastern Conference Play-In Games
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April 16: (7) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (8) Miami Heat
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April 17: (9) Chicago Bulls vs. (10) Atlanta Hawks
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April 19: Heat vs. Bulls (Winner gets 8th seed)
Western Conference Play-In Games
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April 16: (7) New Orleans Pelicans vs. (8) Los Angeles Lakers
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April 17: (9) Sacramento Kings vs. (10) Golden State Warriors
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April 19: Lakers vs. Warriors (Winner gets 8th seed)
The winners advanced to face the Denver Nuggets (1st seed, West) and Boston Celtics (1st seed, East) in the first round.
For real-time NBA standings, visit NBA NewsZ.
Breaking Down the Biggest Play-In Matchups
1. Lakers vs. Warriors – The Ultimate Play-In Showdown
The Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors faced off in a must-win game for the 8th seed, featuring LeBron James vs. Stephen Curry—one of the greatest rivalries in NBA history.
Key Factors:
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Lakers’ Defense: Anthony Davis anchored the paint, making it tough for Curry to get open threes.
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Warriors’ Shooting: If Klay Thompson and Curry got hot, they could outscore anyone.
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Experience: Both teams had championship DNA, but the Lakers’ size gave them the edge.
Prediction: Lakers won a close game, sending the Warriors to a do-or-die matchup against the Kings.
2. Heat vs. 76ers – Who Secured the 7th Seed?
The Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers battled for the 7th seed, with Joel Embiid returning from injury to face Jimmy Butler’s relentless squad.
Key Factors:
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Embiid’s Health: If he was 100%, the 76ers had the best player on the floor.
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Heat’s Playoff Mentality: Miami always turns it up in elimination games.
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Three-Point Shooting: The team that shot better from deep had the advantage.
Prediction: The Heat pulled off another Play-In upset, forcing the 76ers into a must-win game against the Bulls.
Which Teams Advanced to the 2024 NBA Playoffs?
After the dust settled, these teams secured their playoff spots:
Western Conference
✅ 7th Seed: New Orleans Pelicans
✅ 8th Seed: Los Angeles Lakers
Eastern Conference
✅ 7th Seed: Philadelphia 76ers
✅ 8th Seed: Miami Heat
The Warriors and Bulls were eliminated, ending their seasons earlier than expected.
Why the Play-In Tournament Is Here to Stay
The NBA Play-In Tournament has become a fan-favorite because:
More Meaningful Games: Teams fight harder late in the season.
High-Stakes Drama: Single-elimination games create must-watch TV.
Fairness: Gives borderline playoff teams a shot instead of tanking.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed the Play-In is permanent, ensuring more thrilling basketball in future seasons.
Read More: NBA Expansion: How Las Vegas and Seattle Are Shaping the League’s Future
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Play-In Teams?
The 2024 NBA Play-In Tournament delivered unforgettable moments, proving that every game matters. Teams like the Lakers and Heat used it as a springboard for deep playoff runs, while others (like the Warriors) were left regrouping for next season.
One thing is certain: The Play-In is now a core part of the NBA’s identity, and fans can’t wait to see what happens in 2025.
For more NBA news, scores, and analysis, visit NBA NewsZ.
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