The Orlando Magic continued their good run in the NBA regular season on Thursday. The Florida franchise, fifth in the Eastern Conference, which had won its last four matches, won at home against the New Orleans Pelicans (121-106), also fifth, in the West, and who also remained on a series of successes (three).
Orlando benefits from New York’s defeat
Trailing at the end of the first quarter (28-23), Orlando then took control of the game, thanks to a successful 34-20 in the second quarter. The Magic then widened the gap then resisted a comeback from their opponent (73-66, 30th). The Floridians escaped again at the end of the third quarter, a period which they concluded with a large lead (95-75).
New Orleans reacted well at the start of the last act, putting Orlando up 10-0 in less than two minutes. But the Magic were able to pull themselves together again to secure their victory this time. And, thanks to this, he gained a place in the Eastern Conference rankings, now finding himself fourth, in place of New York, beaten by Denver (113-100).
Triple-double de Banchero
Jalen Suggs was Orlando’s top scorer – and of the match – with 22 points (7/14 shooting including 3/8 three-pointers). Paolo Banchero scored a triple-double (20 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists), playing 33 minutes. Franz Wagner (18 pts) also contributed to the victory.
For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy, coming off the bench, scored 21 points, while Zion Williamson scored 20 (8/15 shooting, no long-distance shots attempted), playing 29 minutes. CJ McCollum was also active (18 pts). On the other hand, New Orleans was deprived at the start of the third quarter of Brandon Ingram, injured in the left knee.
The Louisiana franchise remains fifth in its conference. She will play again on Friday, with the Miami Heat. The Orlando Magic will return to the NBA courts on Saturday, at home, against the Sacramento Kings.
