The Orlando Magic secured a significant victory in the NBA Play-In Tournament, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 120-95, and clinching the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. This match showcased the Magic’s potential as they prepare for their upcoming first-round game against the Boston Celtics.
Cole Anthony’s Standout Performance
Leading the charge for the Magic was Cole Anthony, who made a remarkable impact off the bench with 26 points and 6 assists. His leadership and contributions played a crucial role in the team’s commanding performance. Coach Jamahl Mosley praised Anthony, noting that ‘his energy and scoring capabilities set the tone for the night.’
Solid Contributions from Banchero and Black
Not to be overshadowed, Paolo Banchero nearly achieved a triple-double with 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists. Rookie sensation Anthony Black also made significant contributions, scoring 16 points on an impressive 6-of-7 shooting. The Magic’s depth and resilience were evident, as they established a solid lead early in the game.
What Lies Ahead
With this victory, the Magic are set to face off against the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs starting Sunday. The two teams split their season series 2-2, adding intrigue to their upcoming matchup. ‘It’s a great opportunity against the best team in the league,’ Coach Mosley commented, emphasizing the challenge that lies ahead.
The Hawks Struggle to Find Rhythm
Despite Trae Young’s impressive 28 points, the Hawks struggled to maintain their composure throughout the game. Young’s ejection due to a double technical foul late in the match proved detrimental to Atlanta’s chances. Head Coach Quin Snyder stated, ‘We had moments, but overall, we fell short against a well-rounded Magic team.’
Key Factors for Magic’s Victory
- Impactful Bench: Anthony and Black combined for 42 points.
- Defensive Stalwart: The Magic demonstrated fierce defense, conceding only 2 points in the last six minutes of the first quarter.
- Control of the Game: The team managed to control the rhythm, effectively transitioning and utilizing the shot clock.
Looking Forward
As the stage is set for the playoffs, the Orlando Magic’s performance against the Atlanta Hawks serves as a promising indicator of their potential success. Fans eagerly await the upcoming match against the Celtics as the young Magic team looks to make its mark in the postseason.
