In a dominant display to kick off the 2024-25 NBA season, the Orlando Magic rolled past the Miami Heat, 116-97, on Wednesday night at the Kaseya Center. Behind Paolo Banchero’s 33-point, 11-rebound performance, the Magic set the tone early and never let up, cruising to a decisive victory in the opener for both teams.
Orlando’s young star Banchero was electric, hitting key shots and grabbing crucial boards to help his team secure a statement win. Franz Wagner added 23 points for the Magic, while Gary Harris contributed 18 points, all from beyond the arc. Harris’s 3-point shooting was a bright spot for Orlando, who went 18-of-49 from 3-point range, using the long ball as a critical weapon.
The Magic came out firing from deep, attempting 27 3-pointers in the first half alone, a clear shift in their offensive strategy compared to last season, when they struggled from beyond the arc. Orlando’s high volume of 3-point attempts was a departure from their 2023-24 season, where they ranked last in the league with only 903 made 3s. This change paid off early as Orlando took control of the game, leading by as many as 32 points in the second half.
For Miami, Terry Rozier led with 19 points, while Nikola Jovic added 15 and Tyler Herro chipped in 14. However, Miami struggled to find offensive rhythm, particularly Jimmy Butler, who finished with just three points on 1-for-8 shooting. This was the fifth time in Butler’s career that he played at least 24 minutes and scored three points or less, a rare off night for the Heat’s star forward.
The game was part of a special night for the Heat, as they celebrated “Pat Riley Court” night with a halftime ceremony honoring the legendary executive. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, Miami couldn’t find answers to Orlando’s hot shooting and aggressive play.
Orlando’s dominance was most evident in the third quarter, where they outscored Miami 39-18, turning the game into a rout. It was the most lopsided third quarter the Magic have enjoyed on the road since 2010, when they outscored the Boston Celtics by 25. By the time the fourth quarter began, the result was all but decided.
Orlando’s emphasis on the 3-point shot was clear from the opening tip. Their 27 3-point attempts in the first half were more than any game last season, showing a new focus on perimeter shooting. The Magic are looking to be much more dangerous from distance this year, evidenced by their barrage of 3-pointers in this opener.
Miami had a rough shooting night, especially Jimmy Butler, who was held to just three points. The Heat will need to find more consistency on offense moving forward, especially from their key contributors.
Banchero’s 33-point performance placed him in elite company in Magic history. He became just the sixth player in franchise history to score 30 or more points in a season opener. Banchero now ranks third on that list behind Tracy McGrady (42 points) and Shaquille O’Neal (42 points), with his impressive 33-point outing.
Orlando will play their home opener on Friday night against the Brooklyn Nets, while Miami will look to bounce back on the road Saturday night against the Charlotte Hornets.
This opening night marked an early statement from the Magic, who look poised to be a dangerous team in the Eastern Conference this season. For the Heat, adjustments are needed as they aim to find their footing in the coming games.
