Magic Run Out of Gas

Minneapolis, MN — The Orlando Magic couldn’t hold off a late surge by the Minnesota Timberwolves, falling 118-111 at Target Center despite an incredible 43-point effort from Paolo Banchero. The loss snapped Orlando’s momentum after a strong win in New Orleans, while Minnesota extended their winning streak to seven games. 
Despite the loss, the Magic continue their current run of efficient offense and good defense, with the team showing flashes of their past few games where they have been playing at a high-level night in and night out during this road trip, but being on the second half of a back to back, the Magic simply ran out of gas and let the Timberwolves creep their way back into this one after having a very strong first three quarters.

Injury Report Updates

Orlando was without Cole Anthony (left big toe strain) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (rest) tonight. Coach Mosley decided to start Cory Joseph, who had a strong showing in New Orleans, and rookie Tristan da Silva in their place.
Minnesota showed up with a healthy roster and decided to play their best eight players tonight, with the exception of a few minutes from Jalyen Clark in the first half of the game.

Banchero’s Brilliance Not Enough

Paolo Banchero delivered his fourth 40+ point game of the season, with a 43-point performance on 50.0% shooting, including 9-of-11 from the free-throw line, while also adding in 10 rebounds. His scoring outburst kept Orlando in control for much of the game, leading 90-82 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the game.
The Timberwolves took advantage of the tired legs on the court in the fourth quarter and had a late rally that overshadowed Paolo’s dominance. Franz Wagner struggled, managing just 16 points on 25.0% from the field while also having the worst plus/minus on the team at -16. Caleb Houstan on the other hand provided a spark plug off the bench with 18 points, while going for six three-pointers and missing just two of his eight attempts.

Timberwolves’ Comeback Surge

Minnesota flipped the script in the fourth quarter, by going on a 13-0 run that quickly erased Orlando’s lead. Donte DiVincenzo and Nickeil Alexander-Walker were excellent off the bench for the home team, combining for 26 points and both shooting 50% or better from the field. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 28 points, while Julius Randle added 22, and Rudy Gobert secured a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Gobert helped the Timberwolves win the rebounding battle this game 45-31.
The Wolves’ 52.5% field goal efficiency and 42.4% three-point shooting proved decisive as they hit clutch bucket after clutch bucket down the stretch.

Shooting Woes and Defensive Lapses

Orlando’s offense showed flashes of brilliance, hitting 44.9% from the field and 42.9% from three, but their inconsistency in the final quarter allowed Minnesota to stay within striking distance as they blew Orlando out 40-24 in that final period of play. The Magic’s defense faltered late, unable to stop the Timberwolves’ surge despite forcing 15 turnovers earlier in the game.
With Paolo scoring 17 of the Magic’s final 24 points, it shows that the team had no other real scoring options to go to as everyone else was feeling the effects of last night’s game coming down on them. Banchero tried to will the team to victory, but the onslaught from the home team proved too much.

Last Road Game Ahead

The Magic held a comfortable lead entering the final frame, but Minnesota’s relentless push turned the tide. After Orlando tied the game back up at 98 with just a few minutes left, the Timberwolves responded with a 9-0 run to seal the victory, leaving the Magic scrambling to regain control for the remainder of the game.
The Magic now head to Cleveland, aiming to rebound against the best team in the Eastern Conference. After losing by 40 points to the Cavaliers the last time they met, they will look to get revenge this Sunday.