The Orlando Magic secured a hard-fought 117-108 victory over the New York Knicks at home on Friday night, buoyed by stellar performances from Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. Wagner led with 32 points and nine rebounds, while Banchero added 29 points and 10 rebounds, playing crucial roles in holding off a late surge from the Knicks.
The game was played in front of a franchise-record home crowd of 19,587, who witnessed Jalen Suggs contribute 21 points and six assists to the Magic’s cause. The Knicks, despite a strong individual performance from Julius Randle, who scored 38 points along with 12 rebounds and six assists, struggled to find their rhythm in the early stages.
RJ Barrett, New York’s forward, acknowledged the team’s need for a better start, despite their improved second-half performance. Jalen Brunson added 20 points for the Knicks, but coach Tom Thibodeau expressed frustration with the officiating, emphasizing Brunson’s frequent encounters with physical defense.
The Magic credited rookie guard Anthony Black with limiting Brunson to 4-for-15 shooting, praising his defensive prowess. Banchero faced a tough task in guarding the physically imposing Randle, describing him as a “freight train.”
Both teams struggled from the 3-point line, with New York shooting 6 for 30 and Orlando 7 for 33. The Magic took control in the second quarter, spearheaded by Wagner and Banchero, going on an 18-4 run. Their lead expanded to 20 points in the third quarter, setting a margin too challenging for the Knicks to close.
Despite a late-game surge from Randle, Barrett, and Brunson, the Magic managed to maintain their lead, with Suggs making crucial plays in the final minute to seal the victory. Banchero highlighted the importance of withstanding the Knicks’ late run and closing out the game effectively.
The Knicks, who came into the game leading the NBA in total rebound percentage, were outrebounded 49-40 by the Magic, a key factor in their defeat. Looking ahead, the Knicks face a quick turnaround with a game against Indiana on Saturday night, while the Magic prepare for a matchup against Phoenix on Sunday.
