Franz Wagner Leads the Way for the Magic

Franz Wagner matched his career high with 38 points and grabbed eight rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to a 123-108 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night, handing Utah its 10th consecutive loss. Desmond Bane added 25 points, while Anthony Black contributed 22 points and eight assists as Orlando earned its second straight victory and finished its four game road trip with a 2-2 record.

The Magic used their advantage in transition and around the basket to control much of the contest, outscoring Utah 14-3 in fast-break points and 40-28 in points in the paint. Darryn Peterson led the Jazz with 22 points, while Brice Sensabaugh finished with 19. Ace Bailey added 18 points and recorded a season high four blocks for Utah, which has yet to hold an opponent below 110 points this season.

Wagner Leads Orlando’s Second Half Surge

Utah appeared poised to take control after Sensabaugh connected on a 3-pointer to give the Jazz a 96-95 lead. However, Orlando responded with an 18-3 run to take control and never relinquished the advantage. Wagner played a central role in the decisive stretch, scoring two baskets, making two free throws and assisting on a 3 pointer by Bane.

His contributions helped push the Magic ahead 113-99 with 3:39 remaining, putting the game out of reach. Wagner continued his outstanding scoring performance after recording 30 points and 11 assists in Saturday’s 126-119 loss to Golden State. His 38 point effort against Utah matched his career best and helped Orlando close out its road trip on a positive note.

Magic Take Control Before Halftime

Utah struggled to establish an inside presence early, relying heavily on its perimeter shooting. The Jazz attempted 28 field goals during the opening stretch, with 24 coming from outside the paint. The Jazz briefly built momentum and took a 40-34 lead after consecutive 3 pointers from Sensabaugh and Keyonte George.

However, Utah’s limited production around the rim allowed Orlando to work its way back into the game. Wagner sparked the Magic during the second quarter, making four baskets and scoring 13 points as Orlando surged ahead. The visitors carried a 66-59 advantage into halftime.

Jazz Make Another Push After the Break

Utah came out aggressively following halftime, scoring on six of its first seven possessions to regain the lead. Jaxson Hayes completed a three point play to put the Jazz ahead 74-71. The Magic weathered the early third quarter push and remained within striking distance before Wagner and the Orlando offense took over down the stretch. After Utah briefly moved in front late in the game, Orlando delivered the decisive run, turning a one point deficit into a comfortable double digit victory.

Up Coming NBA Games for Magic and Jazz

The Magic return home Friday night to host the Milwaukee Bucks as they look to extend their winning streak to three games. The Jazz will remain on the road and travel to Houston on Friday night to face the Rockets, looking to snap their 10 game losing streak.