WASHINGTON — Franz Wagner’s all-around performance and rookie Anthony Black’s career night powered the Orlando Magic to a 127-119 win against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday. Wagner finished with 28 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, while Black scored a career-high 23 points.
Black, focusing on consistent improvement, played a key role in Orlando’s success. Paolo Banchero, despite a slow start, contributed 24 points and eight assists. Jalen Suggs, returning from injury, added 11 points, impressing coach Jamahl Mosley with his play after a two-game absence.
Jordan Poole led the Wizards with 30 points, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their fourth loss in five games. Tyus Jones contributed 22 points in the effort.
The Wizards initially struggled, trailing by as much as eight, but their bench contributed 12 points in the first quarter, helping to tie the game at 33. Orlando then went on a 7-0 run in the second quarter, leading to a Wizards timeout.
Corey Kispert’s 15 first-half points off the bench kept Washington in the game, trailing just 63-60 at halftime. The Magic maintained their lead in the third quarter, with Banchero’s left-handed layup extending their advantage to 98-88 entering the fourth.
Washington attempted a comeback in the fourth, cutting a 17-point deficit down to four points on two occasions, but Orlando held on. Wagner attributed the win to the team’s togetherness and communication, especially when under pressure.
Orlando dominated with 70 points in the paint and forced 21 turnovers, winning the first three games of their four-game regular season series against the Wizards.
Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged the need to address turnovers and transition opportunities. Daniel Gafford had a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Kyle Kuzma added 17 points, though he struggled with efficiency and turnovers.
Reflecting on his performance, Kuzma felt his lack of rhythm impacted the game’s outcome.
Looking ahead, the Magic will host Philadelphia on Wednesday night, while the Wizards will face Toronto on the same day.
