Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic have struck again. Just when it looked like the Magic were going to see their win streak end at four games on Wednesday against the Washington Wizards, they gathered themselves in time to score a thrilling 119-109 come-from-behind victory on the road.
The Magic were down by as many as 21 points in the second quarter, but instead of just calling it a day, Orlando woke up and went down to work to chip away at the huge deficit before taking the lead for good and securing the victory – their fifth in a row.
Banchero played a huge role in the Magic’s successful comeback bid versus the Wizards, leading Orlando in the second half with 15 points on 6/10 shooting from the field.
Banchero finished the Wizards game with 25 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds. That also means that the Orlando Magic are now 3-0 so far in the 2023-24 NBA regular season when the former Duke Blue Devils star had at least 25 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists in a ballgame.
The last time he put up that stat line before Wednesday was during a 122-120 upset win in Mile High City versus Nikola Jokic and the reigning NBA champions Denver Nuggets back in January. In that game, Banchero had 32 points, 100 assists, and 10 rebounds in 40 minutes of action.
Via StateMuse:
Paolo tonight:
25 PTS
6 REB
10 ASTMagic are undefeated when Banchero has a 25/5/10 game.
The Magic have not been to the playoffs since 2020, but it’s looking like a big possibility that they are going to be part of the postseason party in the Eastern Conference in 2024, as they continue to mature together as a team and win games at a consistent rate. Through their first 37 games this season, the Magic have secured a 37-26 record that is currently good for fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!