Paolo Banchero showcased his scoring prowess, dropping 34 points to lead the Orlando Magic (17-11) to a 117-110 triumph over the Indiana Pacers (14-14) on Saturday night, ending the Magic’s four-game losing streak.
Banchero’s stellar performance included an 11-of-20 shooting display from the field, coupled with a proficient 12-of-16 from the free-throw line. Franz Wagner contributed significantly with 24 points for the Magic.
Tyrese Haliburton led Indiana with 29 points and 14 assists. Myles Turner added 24 points, and Buddy Hield contributed 20, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Jalen Suggs’ absence, missing his second consecutive game due to a sprained left wrist, didn’t hinder the Magic’s success. Gary Harris, starting in Suggs’ place and hailing from the Indianapolis suburb of Fishers, chipped in with 15 points.
Bruce Brown’s absence for the Pacers, sidelined with a right knee bone bruise, provided an opportunity for Andrew Nembhard, who delivered with a 17-point performance in the starting lineup.
