2026 NBA Play-in predictions

The 2026 NBA play-in is set, and that means playoff basketball is officially upon us. The list of this year's participants ranges from surprising to a sure bet. Remember, the NBA play-in is like the last opportunity for those at the bottom, say, the 7-10 seed, a shot at meaningful basketball. In other words, this was a genius concept that has game 7 implications with seasons on the line.

(7) Phoenix Suns vs (8) Portland Trail Blazers

Neither one of these teams was a sure bet coming into the season. Phoenix looked like it was destined for Western Conference purgatory until they weren't. Good campaigns from D-Book, Dillon Brooks, and the Gillispie guy have made the Suns a hard-playing team. On the other side, the Portland Trail Blazers have had an incredible year, considering the circumstances this team has dealt with. Guys like Deni Avdija, Jrue Holiday, and the core have earned their way.

My pick: The Suns Win

(9) LA Clippers vs (10) Golden State Warriors

These two veteran teams came into the season as potential final hopefuls. The LA Clippers have had a roller coaster season, made for a Hollywood soap opera or better yet, a thriller. This team had genuine final aspirations, but they have not lived up to that, and their roster is different with James Harden and Big Zubac gone. On the other side, Golden State was thriving on the edge until Jimmy Butler went down, Steph Curry's injury issues, and the reality that this team is near the end of it all. This should be a great matchup, literally, because Kawhi Leonard is playing, and that matters.

My pick- Clippers Win

(7) Philadelphia 76ers vs (8) Orlando Magic

I am generally interested in how these two teams have managed expectations. The 76ers had a solid season, mostly because they have Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. The 76ers won't have Joel Embiid, and that isn't an idea. How bout them Orlando Magic? Remember, all the talk of ascending in the east so much for that, they have underachieved big time. With that being said, either one of these teams can win here. I am going with the 76ers at home. They should be able to run it up, and I hope they get Embiid back.

My pick- 76ers win

(9) Charlotte Hornets vs (10) Miami Heat

These two teams have generated buzz on the national landscape literally. The Charlotte Hornets are looking like the next great up-and-coming team to see how they have progressed to date. Lamelo, Kon, Brandon, and the city are buzzing. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat had been a middle-of-the-road team, with their biggest highlight being Bam Adebayo scoring 83 points in a game. Because these two teams are very familiar with each other, I expect a physical contest. The Hornets are just way better and playoff worthy.

My pick- Hornets Win

Final picks for the last seed

The LA Clippers will defeat the Portland Trail Blazers

The Charlotte Hornets will defeat the Orlando Magic