The Golden State Warriors pulled away decisively in the second half Monday night, defeating the Orlando Magic 120-97 at Chase Center to close a homestand at an even 15-15.
Stephen Curry scored 18 of his 26 points after halftime, shaking off a difficult opening half and a tender left ankle to fuel a run that flipped the game’s direction.
The Warriors trailed by as many as seven in the third quarter before Curry hit his first 3-pointer of the night with 8:20 left in the period, cutting the deficit to 71-69 and triggering a 14-4 surge.
Golden State outscored Orlando 31-14 in the fourth quarter, turning a competitive contest into a lopsided finish behind efficient shooting and improved defensive pressure.
Curry finished 10-for-23 from the field and 4-for-13 from beyond the arc, adding six assists and two steals as the offense found rhythm after intermission.
Jimmy Butler added 21 points on 7-of-9 shooting, providing steady production in his 30 minutes and helping stabilize the Warriors during early stretches.
Moses Moody delivered one of his most efficient outings of the season with 20 points on 8-for-11 shooting, including three made 3-pointers.
Off the bench, Brandin Podziemski contributed 16 points, five assists and four rebounds, finishing with a plus-36 rating that reflected Golden State’s dominance when he was on the floor.
Draymond Green returned after an early ejection Saturday and logged 18 minutes, recording nine points and seven rebounds while anchoring defensive possessions in the second half.
The Magic were led by Paolo Banchero, who posted 21 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in 34 minutes during the first night of a road back-to-back.
Desmond Bane scored 20 points, but Orlando struggled to keep pace late, shooting 26 percent from three-point range and committing 18 turnovers.
Golden State finished at 52 percent from the field and forced key mistakes during the decisive stretch, turning defense into transition opportunities.
Jonathan Kuminga missed his second straight game with an illness, while head coach Steve Kerr said he hopes to have Al Horford back Thursday after a seven-game absence due to right sciatic nerve irritation.
Orlando visits Portland on Tuesday to complete a four-game road trip, while the Warriors host Dallas on Thursday for a Christmas Day matinee.
