The Magic (5-14) are still out for blood after its third consecutive loss, a 107-99 setback to the Philadelphia 76ers (10-9) on Friday at the Amway Center.
Despite Orlando coming out hot with No. 1 overall pick Paolo Banchero making his return after a seven-game absence due to a sprained ankle, Philadelphia diverted attention from his comeback. Banchero scored 19 points in his return to the lineup, a strong showing from the rookie, but he wasn’t at the level he’s proven he can be in the past.
Bol Bol had a strong first half, scoring 15 of his 17 points, but the Magic quickly relinquished their lead. The reason why Orlando fumbled the game might be pointed toward the third quarter. Philadelphia outscored Orlando 10‑0, taking the lead and keeping it until the end. Despite the Magic shrinking that deficit to as few as five points, the Sixers’ second-half defense prevented any come-from-behind heroics. Shake Milton scored a game-high 24 points for the 76ers, starting in place of injured James Harden. Franz Wagner had the most success of any Magic player on offense, scoring 14 points.
There’s no excuse to the magic loss, but the team was without Wendell Carter Jr. (plantar fascia) and Chuma Okeke (knee). This game could have been a decent win for the magic considering the 76ers were dealing with injured top players as well (James Harden, Joel Embiid, and Tyeres Maxey).
The Magic will see the 76ers soon for payback this upcoming Sunday. Hopefully they’ve learned from the loss and comeback with an efficient game plan to win.
