Franz Wagner delivered a commanding performance on Wednesday night, dropping 35 points to lead the Orlando Magic to a gritty 106-102 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Wagner’s scoring output, coupled with clutch free-throw shooting, anchored the Magic’s bounce-back win after a tough loss the night before.
Wagner’s efficiency was key, as he converted 12 of his 23 attempts from the floor, nailed all 10 of his free throws, and added a timely 3-pointer. His 25 points through three quarters kept the Magic competitive before he broke a tie in the fourth quarter, helping Orlando create separation during a critical stretch.
Jalen Suggs provided crucial support with 17 points, including four of the Magic’s eight made 3-pointers. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc gave Orlando the edge they needed against a Sixers team that was missing several key players.
Philadelphia entered the game short-handed, with Joel Embiid, Paul George, Andre Drummond, and Kyle Lowry all sidelined due to injuries or rest. The absences left the Sixers undermanned, and their lack of depth showed as the game wore on. Despite this, rookie standout Jared McCain shined, pouring in 24 points to continue his strong start to the season. Tyrese Maxey added 16 points but struggled from beyond the arc, missing all seven of his 3-point attempts.
The Magic seized control in the final frame, breaking a tie at the end of the third quarter with a decisive 10-2 run. Wagner’s composure and Suggs’ perimeter shooting were pivotal during this stretch, as Orlando maintained their lead despite a late push from Philadelphia.
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Maxey’s off night from deep was emblematic of the Sixers’ shooting woes, particularly in key moments. His first free throw attempts came in the final minutes, and although he hit two to bring Philadelphia within one point at 99-98, the Magic responded with poise to close out the game.
Off the bench, Orlando received strong contributions despite a shortened rotation. Three of the four reserves who saw action scored in double figures, underscoring the Magic’s depth and balance. This support was instrumental in holding off a Sixers squad eager to build on their momentum following back-to-back wins.
For Philadelphia, the loss marked another missed opportunity to secure their first three-game winning streak of the season. Preseason expectations pegged them as an Eastern Conference contender, but injuries and inconsistency have dropped them to a disappointing 5-15 record. Coach Nick Nurse hinted that Embiid could return for Friday’s rematch, offering a glimmer of hope for a turnaround.
Orlando, on the other hand, has been one of the East’s most intriguing young teams. This win marked their seventh in eight games, a testament to their growth and resilience. Wagner’s emergence as a go-to scorer and Suggs’ development as a reliable secondary option have been central to the Magic’s ascent.
A key moment in the game came midway through the fourth quarter when Wagner and Suggs combined for a series of clutch plays that extended Orlando’s lead. Wagner’s ability to draw fouls and convert at the line kept the Sixers at bay, while Suggs hit a dagger 3-pointer to put the game out of reach.
The teams will face off again on Friday in Philadelphia, where the Sixers will look to rebound and the Magic will aim to extend their strong run. If Wagner and Suggs continue their high-level play, Orlando could further solidify their status as a rising force in the Eastern Conference.
This victory for the Magic showcased their potential as a playoff contender, while the Sixers are left searching for answers in a season that hasn’t gone as planned. With a rematch looming, both teams will have the opportunity to make adjustments and prove their mettle.
