NBA play-in predictions: Heat-Hornets? Trail Blazers-Suns? Our takes on who will advance

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The 2026 NBA postseason play-in tournament begins with two high-stakes matchups, featuring the Miami Heat vs. Charlotte Hornets and the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Phoenix Suns. The winners will advance to the next round, while the losers will have one last chance to earn a playoff berth on Friday.
The 2026 NBA postseason play-in tournament starts with two games. In the East, the Charlotte Hornets host the Miami Heat. The winner will play for the No. 8 seed on Friday. In the West, the Phoenix Suns host the Portland Trail Blazers. The winner will earn the No. 7 seed and play the San Antonio Spurs. The losers will have one last chance to make the playoffs on Friday.
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