Franz Wagner delivered a dagger three-pointer with 2.5 seconds remaining, lifting the Orlando Magic to a dramatic 119-118 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
Wagner capped his electric 37-point performance by leading the short-handed Magic past a surging Lakers squad, snapping their six-game winning streak in stunning fashion.
Orlando, playing its third game in four nights without three key starters, refused to back down against one of the Western Conference’s most dangerous teams. Wagner was the driving force, scoring 15 of his points in the fourth quarter and adding 11 assists for his second career double-double. His poise in crunch time secured the Magic’s seventh win in their last eight outings, further solidifying their position as a rising force in the East.
Davis Dominates, but Lakers Fall Short
Anthony Davis was dominant for Los Angeles, scoring 39 points and grabbing nine rebounds, but his struggles in the clutch cost the Lakers dearly. With 19 seconds left, Davis missed two crucial free throws that could have widened the gap. Moments later, he failed to convert an 18-foot jumper at the buzzer, sealing the Lakers’ fate in their first home loss in eight games.
LeBron James contributed 31 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter, as he and Davis tried to power the Lakers to another comeback victory. However, missed opportunities at the free-throw line and defensive lapses left the Lakers vulnerable to Wagner’s heroics.
Suggs and Moritz Wagner Shine
Jalen Suggs delivered 23 points for the Magic, providing critical energy on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Moritz Wagner posted a season-high 19 points, forming a potent one-two punch with his brother Franz. Together, the Wagners combined for 20 of Orlando’s 30 fourth-quarter points, keeping their team competitive in a game that tested their endurance and resolve.
Orlando’s balanced attack was especially impressive given the absence of starters Wendell Carter Jr., Paolo Banchero, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. The Magic’s depth and determination proved too much for the Lakers, who were without Rui Hachimura and Bronny James.
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Key Moments: Clutch and Collapse
The Lakers appeared poised to pull out another gritty win, but their inability to capitalize in critical moments proved costly. Davis and James combined to miss four of six free throws in the final 39 seconds, leaving the door open for Orlando. Wagner seized the opportunity, drilling the go-ahead three-pointer off a smooth pick-and-roll play to put the Magic ahead for good.
The sequence highlighted the Lakers’ late-game inconsistency, as their normally reliable stars faltered under pressure. Wagner’s clutch bucket underscored the Magic’s growth and resilience, even against elite competition.
A Tale of Two Teams
For the Magic, this win was a statement. Despite a packed schedule and key injuries, Orlando showcased a feisty, mature performance led by Wagner’s brilliance and Suggs’ relentless energy. The victory not only snapped the Lakers’ streak but also reaffirmed the Magic’s rise as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.
On the other hand, the Lakers showed flashes of their usual brilliance, particularly through Davis and James, but their inability to close out tight games against determined opponents remains a concern. As Los Angeles pushes for consistency, these types of lapses could have implications in a highly competitive Western Conference.
Key Stats
The Wagners combined for 56 points, with 20 of Orlando’s 30 fourth-quarter points coming from the brothers. Meanwhile, the Lakers’ free-throw woes were glaring, as they missed four critical attempts in the closing seconds, ultimately swinging the game in Orlando’s favor.
What’s Next?
The Magic will look to keep their momentum alive as they return home to host the Detroit Pistons on Saturday, where they boast a perfect 7-0 record. Meanwhile, the Lakers face another stiff test as they welcome the Denver Nuggets to Crypto.com Arena, aiming to bounce back from this stinging loss.
Final Word
Franz Wagner’s superstar-caliber performance carried a depleted Magic team to an unforgettable victory, marking yet another step forward for Orlando’s young core. For the Lakers, the loss serves as a reminder of the importance of execution in crunch time, even for seasoned veterans like Davis and James. As both teams continue to battle through a long NBA season, this game will stand as a defining moment for Wagner and a missed opportunity for Los Angeles.
