The Orlando Magic got back on track in emphatic fashion Tuesday night, cruising past the Washington Wizards 126-109 behind a dominant all-around performance at home.
Leading the charge was Paolo Banchero, who matched his season high with 37 points in one of his most efficient outings of the year. The All-Star forward was nearly unstoppable, shooting 15-of-21 from the field and setting the tone early as Orlando snapped a two-game skid.
New addition Desmond Bane provided a major scoring boost with 25 points, while Jett Howard added 12. Orlando’s depth was on full display as Jalen Suggs, Jevon Carter, and Moritz Wagner each chipped in 10 points.
Despite missing key contributors Anthony Black (quad), Wendell Carter Jr. (ankle), and Franz Wagner (ankle), the Magic showed no signs of slowing down. They shot an impressive 55.3% from the floor and controlled the game with their starters, particularly in the second half.
Washington, playing with just nine available players, was led by rookie Will Riley with 19 points and Jaden Hardy, who added 18. Rookie forward Juju Reese made his second career start and contributed nine points and eight rebounds in 32 minutes.
Adding a unique subplot to the night, Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky was in attendance to support her brother, Juju, as he continues his early NBA journey.
The Wizards briefly grabbed momentum in the second quarter and stayed within striking distance into the third. However, a layup from Suggs pushed Orlando ahead 66-56, sparking a decisive run. From there, the Magic never looked back, extending the lead to as many as 25 points in the fourth quarter.
With the win, Orlando sits seventh in the Eastern Conference and regains confidence heading into the next stretch of games.
The Wizards host the Utah Jazz on Thursday, as the Magic host the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday
