The Orlando Magic needed a win on Thursday to get back on track just before the All-Star weekend. A couple of months ago, the Magic was sitting right behind the Cavs, Celtics, and the Knicks. But, it’s been a disaster for this young team, having lost 9 of their last 12 games before facing the Charlotte Hornets. Fortunately, the Magic pulled off a win at home and completely destroyed the Hornets. However, things looked quite different early in the game.
Magic’s Poor First Half
The Magic should have had a headstart over a 13-win Hornets, especially with LaMelo Ball, Tre Mann, Brandon Miller, Josh Okogie, and Grant Williams out due to injuries. But, they were having trouble scoring against an undermanned opponent and only got up to 44 points. Orlando even trailed by 2 at halftime.
It was only by the third frame that the Magic came alive, thanks to Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Anthony Black.
Banchero and Wagner Should Have Been All-Stars This Season
Although they both suffered from terrifying injuries and missed a ton of games, it’s obvious that Banchero and Wagner were playing at high levels when on the court. Banchero is an unstoppable force and has shown why he was picked number one in 2022 while Wagner is slowly breaking out as a legit star.
This duo is truly snubbed from the All-Star game, considering how big of an impact they can give to the Magic night in and night out.
Orlando Makes Up for Their Terrible Shooting With Their Elite Defense
The Orlando Magic currently has the worst 3-point shooting percentage this season with only 30.5%. In the first half alone against Charlotte, they shot 5-for-21 (23.8%) from behind the arc. Despite getting great open looks, Orlando just couldn’t complete their shots.
Thankfully, they found their groove after Banchero, Wagner, and Black anchored the offense by relentlessly attacking the paint in the second half.
What really propelled them in the final two quarters is their underrated defense. It would have been better if Jalen Suggs was on the floor. Regardless, they still made stops and outran every offensive player.
We also have to give props to Coach Mosley for making adjustments after halftime. The Magic are now 3-0 against the Hornets in the 2024-2025 season.
