UPDATE: The Orlando Magic suffered a disappointing 120-105 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night at the Kia Center, marking a crucial setback in their season.
Just hours before tip-off, Magic coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized that Charlotte’s 10-20 record did not reflect their true capabilities. However, the Magic failed to capitalize, trailing by as many as 24 points in the third quarter.
Charlotte displayed dominant performance, outpacing Orlando in rebounding 53-42 and scoring 25 second-chance points. Seven Hornets scored in double figures, led by LaMelo Ball with 22 points and an impressive 48.7% shooting from beyond the arc.
In contrast, the Magic struggled offensively, finishing with a mere 31.4% from three-point range. Despite a strong showing from Anthony Black, who netted 24 points, the team could not find the necessary defensive stops to mount a comeback.
The Magic (now 17-14) will face another challenge as they return to the Kia Center for a back-to-back match against the Nuggets, led by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, on Saturday. The Nuggets previously defeated Orlando by 11 points on December 18.
Playing without key players Franz Wagner (left high ankle sprain) and Jalen Suggs (left hip bruise), the Magic relied on Black, along with Tyus Jones, Desmond Bane, and Wendell Carter Jr. (who scored 16 points).
Black’s performance was notable as he hit four three-pointers, but Bane and Paolo Banchero struggled, combining for 0-8 from beyond the arc. Bane ended with 15 points but faced foul troubles that limited his impact.
The Magic’s bench was outscored 41-29 by Charlotte’s reserves, with only Tristan da Silva making a mark by scoring 8 points in the first half before going silent.
In a heartwarming moment at halftime, the Magic surprised a local family with a variety of gifts as part of NBA Cares’ Season of Giving. The family received a new Kia Sorento EX, $5,000 for home furnishings, and additional gifts including meals for a year, a 65-inch TV, and more, marking the 17th consecutive season the Magic have hosted “The Big Give.”
As the Magic prepare for their next game, fans are left hoping for a turnaround to regain momentum in the competitive season ahead. Stay tuned for updates as the Magic look to bounce back against the Nuggets.
