The Toronto Raptors staged an impressive rally to defeat the Orlando Magic 109-93 on Wednesday night, snapping a four-game losing streak to their Eastern Conference rivals. Toronto (11-32) overcame a 21-point first-quarter deficit to secure their first victory this season when trailing at halftime, previously 0-23 in such games.
Scottie Barnes led the Raptors with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, while RJ Barrett contributed 19 points. Gradey Dick added 17 points, including 10 in a pivotal third quarter where the Raptors outscored the Magic 40-20. Bruce Brown came off the bench to deliver 15 points and 5 rebounds.
Toronto’s third-quarter surge turned a five-point halftime deficit into a commanding 15-point lead. Dick’s back-to-back dunks energized the team, while the Raptors’ defense held Orlando to 41.2% shooting overall and just 29% from beyond the arc.
Paolo Banchero led the Magic (23-22) with a game-high 26 points and 12 rebounds, but Orlando struggled after a strong start, shooting 4-for-26 from three-point range after hitting their first five attempts. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 20 points, and Anthony Black added 17 for the Magic, who have now lost four straight games.
Orlando opened the game with a 10-0 run and built a 32-11 lead in the first quarter. However, their offense faltered in the second half, committing 14 turnovers and losing control of the boards. Wendell Carter Jr. fouled out after contributing 10 points and 10 rebounds.
The Magic were also hampered by injuries and illnesses. Cole Anthony missed the game due to illness, and Jonathan Isaac exited after just four minutes of action. Jalen Suggs, dealing with a lower back injury, missed his ninth consecutive game.
