ORLANDO, FL — The Orlando Magic dominated the Washington Wizards 121-94 at the Kia Center in Downtown Orlando on Sunday.
Franz Wagner continued his recent scoring success by leading the Magic with 23 points and seven assists.
Rookie Tristan DeSilva also had a strong night, contributing 11 points, six assists, and six rebounds during his nearly 32 minutes on the floor.
Orlando once again controlled the paint, matching the Wizards with 44 points inside. Fast breaks were limited on both sides, with Orlando edging Washington 10-7.
The Magic’s bench stepped up significantly, with Moritz Wagner and Cole Anthony each scoring 16 points. Anthony Black added 12 points and four assists off the bench.
For the Wizards, Jordan Poole led the way with 24 points, followed by Bilal Coulibaly with 20 points and Kyshawn George with 15 points.
Magic Head Coach Jamahl Mosley’s emphasis on defense creating offense was evident, as they swarmed the Wizards and forced 17 turnovers, converting them into 26 points.
“I think their poise level,” said Mosley. “They [Washington] went on an 8-0 run for a moment, and we didn’t get rattled. That team played hard; give them credit for how hard they played. They have some good pieces over there. I was very pleased with our guys’ response to not get rattled and just continue to play the right way.”
Following a five-game road losing streak, Orlando has made strides toward building better habits and boosting their confidence. They’ve developed a poise that has been much needed since the loss of Paolo Banchero due to an oblique injury.
“I think last game, we got up and down a little bit,” added Mosley. “The team went on a run, similar to tonight, with an 8-0 stretch, but we didn’t get rattled. You know, that team played hard, so give them credit. They’ve got some good pieces over there, and I was very pleased with our guys’ response to not get rattled and just continue to play the right way.”
The Magic, who hold the NBA’s best home point differential, are now 4-0 at the Kia Center this season. The only other undefeated teams at home are the Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns, and L.A. Lakers.
The Magic will play their first Emirates NBA Cup game on Tuesday at the Kia Center against the Charlotte Hornets at 7 p.m.
