Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner Ruin Nikola Jokic’s Big Night – 3 Takeaways as Orlando Embarrass Defending Champs

In a nail-biting showdown, Paolo Banchero and Orlando Magic were in a seesaw battle with the defending NBA champions. Throughout the game, neither team established a lead of more than nine points at any point in the game. The matchup unfolded as a dynamic contest, giving light to a staggering 19 lead changes and 15 score ties. Nikola Jokic posted an incredible triple-double in the game; with 30 points, 12 assists, and 13 rebounds.

However, it was Magic who ultimately secured the victory with a final score of 124-119. Nevertheless, the game was an intense rollercoaster, yielding fans every penny of their season tickets.

1. Denver’s second unit’s struggles were clearly visible

In the opening minutes, the Denver Nuggets swiftly established a 15-10 lead in less than six minutes. However, as the second unit entered the fray, the Nuggets’ struggles came to the forefront. Despite the initial lead, both teams ended the first quarter tied at 28; courtesy of the Orlando bench.

Furthermore, the same challenges persisted for Denver’s second unit in the second half. They struggled to secure an advantage on both ends of the floor. Despite the Nuggets finishing the half with a 62-56 lead, their bench rested outscored 9-29 throughout the half. Moreover, due to the added pressure, the was a lot to be asked from the starters.

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2. Franz Wagner’s huge 3rd quarter

Wagner emerged as the top scorer for Orlando; notching 27 points. Interestingly, 24 of them came in the second half. Wagner’s pivotal moments came when the Magic needed a boost. In the third quarter, Wagner erupted for 15 points. In addition to scoring, he played a crucial role in the closing minutes on both ends of the floor.

Wagner’s free-throw precision kept the Magic in the game. Furthermore, with a mere 2.1 seconds remaining, he seized the opportunity to make a game-changing steal, hence clamping the Denver offense.

3. Paolo Banchero had Anthony Cole coming off the bench

In a dazzling display, Wagner and Paolo Banchero teamed up for an explosive 50-point performance. Moreover, they were not the only ones to cross the 20-point mark. Adding to the Magic’s firepower was Cole Anthony. Coming off the bench, Anthony delivered 20 points and 5 rebounds.

Moreover, Cole’s impact went beyond the stat sheet, as he sank crucial baskets to ensure Magic’s dominance throughout the game. A defining moment occurred when Cole charged towards the basket to ensure Orlando regained the lead, with the score deadlocked at 77. His dynamic play off the bench proved instrumental in solidifying the Magic’s supremacy on the court.

The Nuggets slipped to third in the West with this loss, while the Magic are flying high at 2nd in the East. Which of these teams has a better chance to challenge for the title? Let us know in the comments.

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