Cole Anthony’s explosive performance led the charge as the Orlando Magic cruised to a decisive 112-92 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night, securing at least a play-in berth in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Jalen Suggs showcased his resilience amidst physical challenges in the second quarter, contributing 16 points, six assists, and three steals to the team’s dominant performance. Paolo Banchero also made a significant impact with 13 points and five assists for the Magic, who established a commanding 67-32 lead at halftime.
With a record of 41-28, Orlando now sits comfortably in fifth place in the East, with a 13-game buffer over 11th-place Brooklyn. This marks only the second non-losing season for the Magic since 2011-12, highlighting their remarkable turnaround under coach Jamahl Mosley.
“We set out to be playing our best basketball in March and April, and that’s what we’re going to continue to do,” Mosley emphasized, reflecting on the team’s recent success.
Despite the Hornets’ efforts, led by rookies Brandon Miller and Vasilije Micic with 21 and 20 points respectively, they struggled to contain Orlando’s formidable defense.
“First-team All-Defense. That’s what that looked like,” Mosley praised Suggs for his defensive prowess, which played a pivotal role in turning the tide of the game.
The contest intensified in the second quarter, with Charlotte forward Davis Bertans receiving an ejection following a Flagrant-2 foul for an unnecessary and excessive elbow to Suggs’ face. Moments later, tempers flared as technical fouls were assessed to Suggs and Grant Williams, fueling Orlando’s momentum as they went on a 12-0 run.
Despite the Hornets’ late surge, sparked by Micic’s impressive three-pointers, the Magic maintained their dominance, sealing the victory with a convincing performance.
“They know what to do defensively, and of course, we did not have the right response,” Micic acknowledged. “You have to have the same energy or even better to compete in an away game,” he added, recognizing the challenge posed by Orlando’s relentless defensive pressure.
