Magic Elimate Wizards
Washington, DC — The Orlando Magic showcased dominance over the Washington Wizards, cruising to a 120-105 victory at Capital One Arena. This makes the Wizards the first team in the NBA to be eliminated from the playoffs, sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 15-54 record.
Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 30 points, while five other players, including the entire starting lineup, delivered a double-digit scoring performance as well.
Key Injury Report Updates
Orlando was missing Cole Anthony (toe) and Trevelin Queen (ankle) tonight. Once again, Cory Joseph started in Anthony’s place, and he balled out, continuing to prove this team’s depth when everyone is clicking.
Washington had a handful of injuries on their side as well, with Corey Kispert (thumb), Saddiq Bey (knee), Marcus Smart (finger), Malcolm Brogdon (ankle), and Bilal Coulibaly (hamstring), which caused them to shift their lineup around and change up the minutes they handed out. Some players took advantage of this opportunity as the Wizards leaned on their young core and reserves more against the Magic.
Banchero Leads the Way
Paolo Banchero was unstoppable, dropping 30 points on 50.0% shooting, including 3-of-5 from three, and adding 8 rebounds and 5 assists. 20 of his points came in the first half alone, showing how badly the Magic thrashed the Wizards.
Franz Wagner complemented him nicely with 21 points and 8 rebounds, while Wendell Carter Jr. notched a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds, playing one of his best games of the season with his aggressive start and engine throughout the game. The Magic’s 47.9% field goal efficiency and 40.5% from three was some of the best efficiency we’ve seen from them all season long and as they caught fire they were able to overwhelm Washington’s defense.
Decisive Third-Quarter Run
Orlando sealed the game with a 13-0 run early in the third quarter, ballooning their lead to 88-62 after having a stunning 35-17 scoring advantage in the third quarter. This sudden burst of scoring highlighted the Magic’s ability to shift gears and pull away from a game when they keep their foot on the gas and everyone stays hot during the game.
Wizards’ Struggles
Alex Sarr continues to play well and kept Washington alive for stretches of the game with his 19 points and 10 rebounds, marking his ninth double-double of the season. Jordan Poole was able to add 18 points, while Tristan Vukcevic provided a late spark off the bench with 17 points.
Despite some nice numbers in the box score and impressive scoring performances from youngsters, the Wizards couldn’t overcome their early deficit, even after a 34-18 fourth quarter in Washington’s favor.
Looking Ahead
Sitting eighth in the East, it’s looking more and more likely that Orlando will end up in the Play-In Tournament this season, with the only thing left to fight for is a 7th or 8th seed to avoid having to win two straight games as a 9th or 10th seed to secure a playoff spot.
This win will hopefully set the stage for the Magic to continue playing well as they head back home for a marquee matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers.