CJ McCollum scored 27 points and Alex Sarr added 23 as the Washington Wizards held off the Orlando Magic 120-112 at Capital One Arena on Tuesday, January 6. The victory extends Washington’s surge to five wins in seven games after a 3-20 start to the season.
The Wizards built a 26-point lead in the third quarter following Justin Champagnie’s three-pointer at 89-63, but inexperience showed as Orlando cut the deficit to 14 by the period’s end. Washington struggled early in the fourth, going 2 of 10 from the field, allowing Goga Bitadze’s layup to make it 107-105 with just over five minutes remaining.
McCollum responded with a series of timely plays, including a midrange jumper, a three-pointer, and an alley-oop to Sarr that pushed the lead to nine. Another McCollum three extended the advantage to 117-107 with under two minutes left, putting the game out of reach.
Jase Richardson led the Magic with 20 points, while Desmond Bane contributed 15 in the losing effort. Orlando played without key starters Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs, both sidelined with injuries, limiting their depth and playoff push.
Sarr also collected seven rebounds and two assists, providing crucial support on both ends for Washington. Khris Middleton added 11 points and seven rebounds, helping stabilize the team during Orlando’s late surge.
Despite the comeback attempt, the Wizards’ shooting and composure down the stretch secured the victory. Washington finished the night shooting 45% from the field, including 32% from three, while converting 31 of 33 free throws.
The win lifts Washington to 10-25 and continues their surprising turnaround in the midst of a multi-year rebuild, while Orlando falls to 20-17 but remains atop the Southeast Division. The Wizards travel to Philadelphia on Wednesday, while the Magic face Brooklyn the same night.
