Orlando Magic ended a four-game skid with a commanding 123–107 win over the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center on Thursday night. Franz Wagner led the charge with 21 points, while Paolo Banchero added 18 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists.
The Magic built an early lead, going up 53–40 midway through the second quarter on Desmond Bane’s basket and extended it to 71–58 at halftime, marking their highest first-half scoring output this season. Charlotte struggled against Orlando’s defense, with rookie Kon Knueppel held to just one three-pointer after hitting five in the previous game.
LaMelo Ball recorded his third double-double of the season with 17 points and 13 assists, but the Hornets could not close the gap. Miles Bridges chipped in 16 points, while Ryan Kalkbrenner added 17 points and seven rebounds in his first career start alongside two other rookies, Sion James and Kon Knueppel.
Charlotte briefly cut the deficit to seven in the third quarter, with Kalkbrenner scoring and Bridges adding a short jumper to make it 88–85. However, Orlando regained control with Tristan da Silva’s three-pointer, pushing the lead to 104–87 and securing the win.
Wagner, who was questionable with a left heel contusion before the game, played a key role alongside Banchero and Bane. Anthony Black contributed 20 points, and the Magic bench added valuable production to maintain a consistent advantage throughout the game.
This victory gives Orlando momentum heading into Saturday’s matchup against the Washington Wizards, while Charlotte looks to rebound when hosting the Minnesota Timberwolves.
