Magic Bench Shines

Indianapolis, IN — The Orlando Magic unleashed their bench in a commanding 129-115 victory over the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, riding a career night from Trevelin Queen and a balanced attack from all the role players to extend their winning streak to five. With their play-in spot secured, Orlando decided to rest key starters in preparation for the postseason, showcasing their depth in the process during this dominant performance.

Key Injury Report Updates

Orlando sat four out of five starters for tonight’s game, including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Wendell Carter Jr., Franz Wagner, and Paolo Banchero. Cory Joseph, the lone starter to play, logged just over 6 minutes in the game, all coming in the first half. After the Magic locked up the seventh seed, they took no chances for any injuries ahead of their Play-In matchup against the Hawks.

Indiana was also getting playoff-ready as they rested all five starters and some rotational pieces, including Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, Aaron Nesmith, and Ben Sheppard. After Indiana clinched the fourth seed earlier on, the Pacers decided to give their role players some run this game to ensure they are fresh for their first-round rematch against the Bucks.

Queen and Black Lead the Charge

Trevelin Queen erupted for a career-high 25 points, hitting 5-of-6 from three and shooting 81.8% from the field while also adding 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Anthony Black played exceptionally as well as he delivered 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, anchoring the Magic’s fluid offense. Jett Howard dropped 17 points and Jonathan Isaac chipped in 12 points 3 blocks in a well-rounded game by the bench unit. Orlando’s depth really shined throughout the game as eight Magic players reached double figures on the night.

Pacers’ Depth Tested

Bennedict Mathurin led Indiana with 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Johnny Furphy added 17 points and a few highlight-reel plays. Jarace Walker and Tony Bradley contributed 15 and 10 points, respectively, but the Pacers’ 44.9% shooting and 17 turnovers couldn’t keep pace. Indiana’s loss locked them into a first-round playoff rematch with Milwaukee and ended their six-game win streak.

Looking Ahead

With their play-in berth secured, Orlando is now 41-40 and over .500 on the season for the first time since their win against the Pistons on January 25th.

Orlando will now head into their regular-season finale and a Play-In preview against the Hawks on Sunday afternoon as they look to finish above .500 for the second straight season.