The Orlando Magic lost to the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night, 106-97. Orlando couldn’t guard Damian Lillard, who dropped 36 points, ultimately leading to the Blazers win.
Overview
Nikola Vucevic and Terrence Ross both scored 20+ in the loss to the Trail Blazers. James Ennis III also had 16 points, and Frank Mason III, the new Magic addition, had 11 points. Rookie Guard Cole Anthony had to leave early due to a back injury. And for the Trail Blazers, Carmelo Anthony had 23 points, with Robert Covington bringing down 11 rebounds.
Damian Lillard Carries the Blazers On His Back
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On Tuesday night, Damian Lillard carried Portland on his back with 36 points. He came up big with CJ McCollum (left midfoot fracture), and C Jusuf Nurkic (right wrist fracture) both out. Lillard also had 5 rebounds and 2 assists.
Terrence Ross and Nikola Vucevic Stand Out in Loss
Nikola Vucevic had 27 points and 15 rebounds in the Magic’s loss on Tuesday night. Vucevic is averaging 23.3 points and 11.5 boards in an All-Star caliber season. Terrence Ross, who has been one of the best bench players in the NBA, is averaging 14.1 PPG in a 6th man role for Orlando. Ross had 22 points and 4 rebounds. Both have been great scorers for the Magic this year.
The Addition of Frank Mason III
Frank Mason III already looks like an upgrade from Jordan Bone at the backup PG spot. The 26 year old guard was signed last week and he’s made the most of his opportunity so far, now with back to back double digit performances. Mason was drafted by the Kings with the 34th pick in the 2017 draft, coming after a great senior year at Kansas where he averaged 20.9 PPG. He hasn’t found a home in the NBA yet, after two seasons with the Kings and one with the Bucks. He needs to improve on his efficiency, but he is already making an impact on a desperate Magic team, with injuries all around.