The Orlando Magic returned from the All-Star break and continued their recent winning ways. The Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 108-106 to earn their 25th victory of the season. The Magic are now 25-35 overall and are looking to make a push towards at least a Play-In Tournament spot. Wendell Carter got the game-winning putback after a miss on a drive by Paolo Banchero. Carter spoke postgame about his heroics.
“I didn’t want to go into overtime so I had to figure out something,” said Carter. He barely avoided a basket interference call. The referees reviewed the play and determined that the putback was legit.
Franz Wagner led the way for the Magic with 21 points on 7-for-13 shooting. Wagner knocked down 2-for-5 from the three-point line. Wagner also knocked down 5-for-5 from the free-throw line. He also grabbed six rebounds and dished out six assists. Wendell Carter scored 14 points on 5-for-13 shooting, including the game-winner. Carter knocked down 4-for-6 from the free-throw line. Cater also grabbed 14 rebounds and dished out two assists.
More Magic Contributions
- Markelle Fultz scored 14 points, grabbed two rebounds, dished out eight assists, and recorded two steals.
- Gary Harris scored 12 points and dished out two assists.
- Paolo Banchero scored 11 points, grabbed six rebounds, and dished out six assists.
- Cole Anthony scored 15 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out four assists off the bench.
- Jonathan Issac scored 10 points and grabbed seven rebounds off the bench.
The Magic face the Indiana Pacers in their next game on Saturday, 2/25 at home in Orlando, Florida. Tip-off from the Amway Center is at 7 pm Eastern.
