In a remarkable comeback effort, the Orlando Magic secured a 122-120 victory over the Denver Nuggets, thanks largely to Paolo Banchero’s first career triple-double. Banchero finished with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, playing a crucial role in rallying the Magic from an 18-point deficit.
Banchero’s performance was particularly clutch in the final moments. He made four crucial free throws in the last 34.6 seconds, including a pair that put the Magic ahead with 9.7 seconds remaining. “Just the power of just positive energy and just pushing each other,” Banchero reflected on the team’s spirit during the comeback.
The Nuggets had an opportunity to retake the lead in the game’s dying moments, but Moritz Wagner’s steal and pass to Banchero, who was subsequently fouled, shifted the momentum in favor of Orlando. Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic were the intended targets for Denver’s final play, but the Magic’s defense held firm, culminating in Murray’s missed floater at the buzzer.
Jalen Suggs contributed a career-high 27 points for the Magic, who were 7 of 9 from the 3-point range. The team’s resilience was noteworthy, especially considering their extensive injury list, which included key players like Markelle Fultz and Wendell Carter Jr.
For Denver, Jokic led with 29 points, but fatigue seemed to play a factor for the Nuggets, who had rallied from an 18-point deficit themselves to beat the Golden State Warriors the night before. Coach Michael Malone expressed disappointment, particularly with the team’s third-quarter performance.
The Magic’s win was a testament to their character and the “next man up” mentality, as noted by Suggs. Denver’s Michael Porter Jr. highlighted the challenge of finding balance in their offense, with many capable scorers in the team.
Orlando coach Jamahl Mosley, who has personal ties to Denver, praised his team’s character and resilience. The Magic now return home to face Atlanta, while the Nuggets will host the Detroit Pistons.
This victory for Orlando not only showcases Banchero’s growing stature in the league but also the team’s ability to overcome adversity and secure wins against strong opponents.
