ORLANDO – the Orlando Magic beat the Memphis Grizzlies 118-86 at Amway Center, ending a 4 game losing street in powerful fashion.
The Magic battled back and forth against Memphis last night at Amway, but their defense and length prevailed as Jonathan Isaac continued his lease leading defensive blocked shots tear by adding 4 more tonight.
” Terrific”, said Magic head coach Steve Clifford on Jonathan Isaac “Eight rebounds, Four blocked shots. Efficient. You can see his confident is growing every time he steps on the floor.”
Orlando took over the first quarter with 27 points to Memphis’ 15 by holding the Grizzlies to 26% shooting, even though the Magic only managed to go 1 of 7 from deep.
For the Grizzlies, the 3-point shot was their friend all night. It’s what kept them in the game. Memphis Finished the game with 11 3-point shots, including two each by Jae Crowder, Jona Valanciunas, and Marko Gudric.
As for Orlando’s defensive prowess, the held superstar and #2 draft pick Ja Morant to 8 points. Morant who averages 27 points per game, was effectively handled by the Magic guard combinations.
Aaron Gordon continues to improve and impress. Gordon scored 17 points on 7-11 shooting. Even though he went 0-3 on 3-point attempts, Godeon was a literal highlight reel, including a spectacular revers dunk off of a Michal Carter-Williams pass from the in the air.
Orlando is starting to play with confidence. Coach Steve Clifford has seen it grow the more the team works through the season. Even thought they have been battling a massive shooting slump, their defense has been holding opponents off and allowing them sth still remain competitive.
The Magic game the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. Thought they are without star Victor Oladipo, the Pacers are a touch Nate McMillian Team: Gritty, hard charging, and strong defensively. It will be no east task.
