The Orlando Magic (42-28), led by standout performances from Jalen Suggs and Paolo Banchero, secured a commanding 121-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans (42-27) on Thursday night.
Banchero, despite a slow start, notched his second career triple-double with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Suggs emerged as a key contributor for Orlando, leading the team with 22 points, while Franz Wagner added 18 points to bolster the Magic’s offensive firepower.
The Pelicans fell short against a determined Magic squad, with Trey Murphy III leading their charge with 21 points, closely followed by Zion Williamson’s 20-point performance and CJ McCollum with 18 points.
New Orleans faced adversity early in the second half as they lost forward Brandon Ingram to a left knee injury, further complicating their efforts to mount a comeback against Orlando.
Orlando erased a 12-point deficit in the first quarter with a spirited 33-10 surge led by Cole Anthony and Moritz Wagner off the bench.
Despite a late surge from the Pelicans, Orlando maintained their composure to secure a decisive victory.
