Paul George and KJ Martin powered the Philadelphia 76ers to a 102-94 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Playing at the Wells Fargo Center, the win marked the 76ers’ third victory in their last four games, bringing their season record to 6-15.
George, in just his second game back from a left knee bone bruise, delivered a standout performance with 21 points and nine assists. Martin provided an offensive spark off the bench, contributing 20 points on an efficient 9-of-10 shooting night.
Orlando’s Franz Wagner led all scorers with 30 points, while Jalen Suggs chipped in 22. Despite the strong individual performances, the Magic’s poor second-quarter shooting undermined their efforts, dropping their record to 16-9.
The 76ers capitalized on Orlando’s shooting struggles, particularly in the second quarter, where the Magic went 4-of-21 from the field and missed all 13 of their three-point attempts. Philadelphia turned a narrow two-point deficit into a nine-point halftime lead.
Tyrese Maxey and Guerschon Yabusele supported the 76ers’ offensive push, scoring 16 points each. Yabusele also contributed on the boards, collecting three rebounds while shooting efficiently from the field.
After the Magic cut a 17-point deficit to seven early in the fourth quarter, Philadelphia tightened its defense. Forced turnovers by George and Martin fueled a critical run that extended the lead to 13, effectively sealing the game.
Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze provided interior presence for Orlando, combining for 17 points and 13 rebounds. However, the Magic’s three-point shooting woes continued, as they converted just 28.3% of their attempts from beyond the arc.
For Philadelphia, the win offers momentum as they await the return of Joel Embiid, sidelined with chronic knee swelling.
