The Orlando Magic took care of business at home on Saturday night, defeating the Indiana Pacers 135-127 in a high-scoring affair at the Kia Center. Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane, and Anthony Black carried the load for the Magic, combining for efficient scoring and playmaking as Orlando improved to 20-16 on the season while handing the Pacers their latest loss in a tough campaign.
Paolo Banchero was dominant as usual, pouring in 28 points on an impressive 9-for-18 shooting from the field. Banchero shot 7-for-9 from the free-throw line. He knocked down 3-for-5 from the free-throw line. He added his playmaking touch and was a force in the paint, helping the Magic maintain control throughout the contest.
Desmond Bane stepped up HUGE, delivering 31 points on 12-for-17 shooting. Black was also perfect from the free-throw line knocking down 4-for-4. Bane was everywhere on the court, dishing assists, hitting from three, and providing the spark that kept Orlando’s offense rolling against a Pacers team that couldn’t slow them down.
More Magic Contributions
• Anthony Black scored 27 points, grabbed three rebounds, dished out 10 assists, recorded a steal, and blocked four shots in the Magic’s victory.
• Wendell Carter Jr. scored 18 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out four assists. Carter Jr. also recorded two steals.
On the Pacers’ side, Pascal Siakam led the charge with 34 points on efficient 14-for-21 shooting, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Orlando’s balanced attack. Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith added their usual contributions, but Indiana fell to 6-30, continuing their struggles on the road.
The Magic continue to build momentum at home (now 12-6) and look to carry this offensive firepower forward in their next matchup. The Magic travel to Washington D.C. next to face the Washington Wizards on Tuesday, 1/6. Tip-off from Capital One Arena is at 7 p.m. Eastern.
