Despite Wagner’s record: Magic’s crisis deepens in Phoenix

The Orlando Magic have suffered their third defeat in a row. Despite a convincing performance from Franz Wagner as playmaker and a strong showing from Tristan da Silva, the Floridians lost 104–117 to the Phoenix Suns. Devin Booker led the hosts with 30 points to end their four-game losing streak.

Phoenix took control as early as the first half. Booker had scored 23 points by half-time and sank a three-pointer just before the half-time buzzer to extend the lead to 63–51. Orlando held their own, largely thanks to Wendell Carter Jr., who had already racked up 13 points and eight rebounds by that stage.

After the break, the Suns pulled decisively ahead. Booker and Dillon Brooks hit two three-pointers in quick succession midway through the third quarter, extending the lead to 78–60. Phoenix went into the final quarter with a 96–73 lead, before Collin Gillespie even increased the margin to 30 points with a long-range shot around nine minutes from the end.

Wagner as playmaker – da Silva impresses off the bench

Wagner took on a lot of responsibility as playmaker and set a new personal NBA best with 15 assists. The Berlin native also scored 15 points, though he did commit six turnovers. Da Silva impressed off the bench with 18 points.

The Magic’s biggest problem was their careless handling of the ball. Orlando committed a total of 25 turnovers, from which Phoenix scored 36 points. The Suns also hit 17 of their 34 three-pointers, a strong 50 per cent from distance. Brooks contributed 24 points, whilst Miles Bridges recorded 18 points and 13 rebounds.

The Magic’s standout performer was Carter with 27 points – scoring ten out of twelve shots – as well as 13 rebounds. However, his efficient performance was not enough to prevent Orlando’s first defeat on their four-game road trip. Phoenix, on the other hand, secured their first win in the second game of their seven-game home stand.