Orlando Magic (11-40) won back-to-back games last week, defeating the Detroit Pistons (11-37, 14th in the East) on Friday and the Dallas Mavericks (29-22,6th in the West) on Sunday. Both victories showcased the Magic’s youthful team’s diverse styles and development. Throughout the majority of the game against Detroit, the Magic maintained a comfortable lead. On the other hand, the Dallas contest was a nail-biter. Ultimately, Orlando showed their ability to close games and will their way through adversity.
Cruising on the Detroit Pistons
Orlando was on cruise control by the midway point of the first quarter and beyond, cruising to a rout of the Detroit Pistons. The team shot 49 percent from the field and 48 percent from behind the three-point arc. Part of the reason for the Magic’s excellent shooting performance was that they did not settle for many jumpers but instead moved the ball well, creating more open looks. Orlando also played well defensively, limiting the Pistons to 19 points in the opening quarter while scoring 39 points themselves.
Mo Bamba, the starting center, stated that he “loved the pace” his team played and that they “showed growth tonight.” Speaking to the media after the game, Coach Jamahl Mosely said “I really thought there pace was great.” Franz Wagner led Orlando with 24 points on 7 of 12 shooting while Terrence Ross added 21 points on 4-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc. The Magic maintained their domination in the second half, outscoring the Pistons by a score of 119 to 103.
A Battle Against the Dallas Mavericks
Orlando was unable to build a comfortable lead against the Mavericks at any stage during the game. Dallas scored 34 points in the first quarter and 64 at halftime. Orlando remained competitive throughout the first half and into the second. Both teams traded leads in the third and fourth quarters, but the Magic prevailed. Franz Wagner broke the tie with 54 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter with a powerful layup, giving Orlando the lead. The Magic were able to hold Dallas to one free throw shoot and claimed a 110-108 victory. Orlando was led by Chuma Okeke, who scored 19 points on 7 of 10 shooting. Wendell Carter Jr. also had a strong game, finishing with a double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds.
Next Up for Orlando
Orlando will look to make it back-to-back-to-back victories when they go to the United Center on Tuesday, February 2nd, at 8 p.m. eastern to face the Chicago Bulls. The Magic might be a young team, but they are ready to win!
