Orlando Magic Triumph Over Los Angeles Clippers
In a thrilling contest in Inglewood, California, the Orlando Magic edged past the Los Angeles Clippers with a narrow 111-109 victory on Sunday night. Desmond Bane was the standout performer for Orlando, contributing a remarkable 36 points. He was well-supported by Paolo Banchero, who posted 16 points along with eight assists, and Wendell Carter Jr., who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds. With this win, the Magic improved their record to 5-2 since February 5, while the Clippers fell to 4-5 after their recent games.
Clippers’ Performance
Kawhi Leonard, despite battling an ankle injury, led the Clippers with 37 points, showcasing his exceptional skill on the court. Bennedict Mathurin, newly acquired from the Indiana Pacers at the trade deadline, scored 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds, but missed a critical three-point shot at the final buzzer that would have secured a victory for Los Angeles. Jordan Miller also contributed 14 points for the Clippers.
Game Highlights
Orlando struggled with their perimeter shooting, finishing the game hitting only 8 of 23 three-pointers, particularly notable just days after they set a franchise record with 27 three-pointers against the Sacramento Kings. Adding to their challenges, Orlando’s Jalen Suggs missed the match due to back spasms, marking his second consecutive game absent from the lineup.
The game was tightly contested throughout, with Leonard giving the Clippers a 107-105 lead with just over three minutes remaining. However, the Magic quickly responded, with Bane tying the score before securing a 109-107 lead on a layup with 1:28 remaining. As the Clippers went cold, failing to score on four consecutive possessions, Banchero extended Orlando’s lead to 111-107 with a fast-break dunk.
Despite a blocked shot from Bane in the closing seconds, Mathurin had a chance to win the game but could not convert his deep shot as time expired.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, the Magic will face off against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night, while the Clippers are set to host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night.
