Scott Clark
Nov 24, 2023 - 01:05

Franz Wagner shines in big 2nd half as Magic hold off Nikola Jokic, Nuggets for 5th straight win

Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero lead Orlando Magic to their fifth straight victory, defeating Denver Nuggets 124-119. Nikola Jokic scored a triple-double.

The Orlando Magic secured their fifth consecutive victory with a 124-119 win over the Denver Nuggets, despite Nikola Jokic's triple-double. Jokic finished with 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists, marking his sixth triple-double of the season and 111th of his career. The Nuggets, who are now 4-4 without injured guard Jamal Murray, fell to the Magic as Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero led Orlando to victory.

Wagner scored 24 of his 27 points in the second half, while Banchero added 23 points, breaking a 115-all tie with a crucial 3-pointer. Michael Porter Jr. scored 25 points for the Nuggets, who have lost three of their last four games. Despite Jokic's impressive performance, the Magic's 42 points in the fourth quarter stood out, leading to their victory.

Orlando's bench scored 58 points, contributing to their win and highlighting their strength as a team. Wagner and Banchero's combined efforts, along with contributions from other players, secured the Magic's victory. The game saw a back-and-forth battle, but Orlando ultimately prevailed with six straight free throws in the final 14 seconds.

Jokic's 15 points in the fourth quarter were not enough to secure a win for the Nuggets. Banchero emphasized the team's strategy to focus on limiting Jokic's impact and preventing three-pointers from other players. Despite Jokic's impressive performance, the Magic's defensive efforts and balanced scoring led them to victory.

The win solidified the Magic's position with a 10-5 record and showcased their strong defense, ranking number one in opponents' points per 100 possessions. Denver coach Michael Malone acknowledged the Magic's performance and emphasized the need to make more plays down the stretch. The game highlighted the Magic's resilience and ability to secure a victory against a tough opponent.