The Brooklyn Nets beat the Toronto Raptors 116-103 to become the first Eastern Conference team to secure a play-off spot.
Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving combined for 26 points on a night when seven Brooklyn players posted double-digit points totals at Amalie Arena, Tampa.
Golden state warriors failed to secure their playoff place early after they went down to Dallas Mavericks 133-103.
Stephen Curry finished with 27 points on 9-of-18 shooting with two assists.
In the other game Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 29 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as the Milwaukee Bucks strengthened their hold on third place in the Eastern Conference with a 114-104 win over the Hornets.
Anfernee Simons hit 27 points as the Portland Trail Blazers thrashed the Indiana Pacers 133-112 in Indianapolis.