The Orlando Magic (31-36) pounced early and never looked back, cruising to a much-needed 113-93 win over the New Orleans Pelicans (18-49) on March 14.
Orlando Magic Top Performers:
Paolo Banchero 34 PTS | 11 REB | 4 STL | 67.2 FPS
Banchero has been on a strong offensive surge this month, averaging nearly 29 points while significantly improving his shooting percentages. He’s likely to maintain this level of performance as he shoulders much of the load, with the team relying on him for an offensive spark. He also continues to contribute in both rebounding and playmaking, despite some inconsistencies. Notably, he has elevated his defensive impact, recording four steals in two games this month. Recently, a video circulated online suggesting tension between him and teammate Wendell Carter Jr. The clip appeared to show Banchero criticizing Carter after a missed three-point attempt. However, Banchero quickly addressed the video on social media, dismissing it as misleading and falsely edited out of context.
Franz Wagner 27 PTS | 6 REB | 5 AST | 42.7 FPS
Wagner has been up-and-down offensively this month. He failed to reach 20 points in his previous three games, but he bounced back strong today and notched his third 25+ point game. He’s also improved his rebounding and playmaking numbers lately, but his output would be challenged with a tough schedule ahead.
Cory Joseph 12 PTS | 6 REB | 3 AST | 23.7 FPS
Joseph didn’t see any playing time in his last two games but was thrust into a starting role with Anthony sidelined. He delivered good contributions in points and rebounds but his fantasy value remains limited.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope 12 PTS | 3 REB | 3 AST | 23.1 FPS
KCP has been a significant part of the team’s rotation in past weeks, though his overall production hasn’t quite matched the level of his role. That said, he has shown some offensive flashes this month, scoring in double figures for the fourth time in six games.
Jonathan Isaac 8 PTS | 3 REB | 2 BLK | 22.1 FPS
Isaac hasn’t played many minutes lately but has still recorded three stocks in three of his last four games.
New Orleans Pelicans Top Performers:
Zion Williamson 20 PTS | 8 REB | 5 AST | 35.1 FPS
Williamson continues to impress on offense, scoring 20+ points in four-straight games following a 37-point outing. He’s also steadily emerging as an all-around threat, maintaining strong rebounding and defensive numbers while also demonstrating growth as a playmaker. However, given his injury history, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team eventually decides to shut him down for the rest of the season.
Jose Alvarado 12 PTS | 4 AST | 3 STL | 27.4 FPS
Alvarado is shaping up to be a strong asset for the rest of the season. He’s been on a strong run lately, scoring in double-digits and knocking down at least two three-pointers for the fourth-consecutive game. He’s also been a reliable playmaker, while also standing out on defense with steals. On top of that, he’s poised to see a larger role ahead, with the possibility of the starters getting shut down.
Trey Murphy 17 PTS | 5 REB | 2 AST | 24.0 FPS
Murphy has been consistently productive, scoring 17 or more points in six of his seven games this month while maintaining efficient shooting numbers. His defensive impact also remains notable, delivering good numbers in rebounding and defensive stats. That said, he’s very likely to be shut down.
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl 11 PTS | 6 REB | 3 AST | 22.7 FPS
Robinson-Earl’s role is too limited to justify a roster spot, but he should see more opportunities ahead with the season ending.
Karlo Matkovic 8 PTS | 6 REB | 2 BLK | 20.7 FPS
Matkovic has carved out a dependable spot in the rotation and has been highly efficient offensively, scoring in double digits in three-straight games before this contest. He’s also contributing well on the boards, but his biggest impact comes on defense, recording at least two blocks in five games this month. He’s a good waiver target now, particularly in deeper leagues.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
CJ McCollum 9 PTS | 3-10 FG | 4 AST
McCollum had a rough outing offensively today and also delivered an underwhelming overall performance. He’s struggled to meet expectations since his 40-point game, and given the team’s direction, that trend could continue. A shutdown is also on the table, making him a tough player to hold onto.
