Franz Wagner delivered a standout performance with 29 points as the Orlando Magic cruised to a 123-100 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night in an NBA Cup matchup.
Backed by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s 19 points and a balanced team effort, Orlando improved to 3-0 in East Group A play, setting up a high-stakes showdown with the New York Knicks for the group championship.
The Magic, now riding a five-game winning streak, continue to build momentum in a season that started with early struggles. They have now won 11 of their last 12 games, a remarkable turnaround after a five-game losing streak, all of which came on the road.
Wagner led the charge with his scoring prowess, while Jalen Suggs and Wendell Carter Jr. chipped in 12 points apiece. The Magic’s offensive cohesion and ability to stretch the floor proved too much for Brooklyn, with Orlando connecting on an impressive 18-of-35 shots from beyond the arc.
The Nets, who had their three-game winning streak snapped, struggled to keep pace despite Shake Milton’s 22 points off the bench. Keon Johnson added 15 points, and Cam Johnson contributed 14, but Brooklyn’s lack of firepower in the starting lineup was evident. The absence of Dennis Schroder, the team’s second-leading scorer, due to personal reasons, left a noticeable void in the Nets’ offensive rhythm.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Orlando’s dominance extended across the board, but the game’s key moment came in the closing minutes. Although the Magic and Knicks are tied at 3-0 in Group A play, Orlando holds the edge in point differential. By hitting their final three shots of the game, all 3-pointers, the Magic surpassed the Knicks’ margin of victory in the standings, giving them a crucial tiebreaker heading into Tuesday’s clash.
Brooklyn showed flashes of competitiveness, particularly with its bench unit, but the Magic’s ability to control the tempo and dominate from long range proved insurmountable. The Nets now sit at 1-3 in NBA Cup play, with their hopes of advancing dashed.
For Orlando, this victory solidifies their standing as one of the league’s hottest teams. Their resurgence has been marked by improved road performances, winning four of their last five away games after a tough stretch in late October and early November.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they prepare for the second game of the two-game series against Orlando on Sunday. Despite the loss, the Nets remain competitive in regular-season play and will aim to bounce back at home.
Orlando’s trajectory points upward as they prepare for a showdown with the Knicks, a matchup that could serve as a litmus test for their progress. With their balanced attack, deep roster, and hot shooting from beyond the arc, the Magic are poised to make noise in the NBA Cup and beyond.
The Magic’s performance also highlighted their ability to close games decisively, a trait that could prove valuable as they vie for postseason success. Wagner’s scoring brilliance and the team’s collective efficiency underscore the strides Orlando has made, positioning them as a legitimate threat in both the NBA Cup and the broader league landscape.
The Nets and Magic will meet again on Sunday to conclude their series, offering Brooklyn a chance for redemption and Orlando an opportunity to extend their winning streak. Tuesday’s matchup against the Knicks looms large for the Magic, who will aim to solidify their spot as Group A champions and advance deeper into the in-season tournament.
p5ez8m