“Like any other day in Florida, it’s raining. But tonight, it’s raining threes.”
This is what I would have said as the Magic announcer Tuesday night as the Magic beat the Wizards 127-119.
The Magic only attempted 26 three pointers, but they hit on 12 of them which makes that percentage a whopping 46%.
Orlando had their usual stars show up as Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner combined for 52 points, 11 rebounds, and 17 assists.
But it was rookie Anthony Black who really stole the show as he ended the game with 23 points, six rebounds, and four steals. This year, Black only averages five points on 50% shooting. However, last night the first-rounder had 23 points with just under 70% shooting.
The Magic are one of the hottest teams right now as they head into the New Year 18-11, good for fourth in the East.
The Magic defense was something to watch on Tuesday as they held Kyle Kuzma to 33% shooting and 25% shooting from deep. For perspective, he is averaging 47% shooting from the field and 36% from deep this season. Orlando knew that and their game plan was to stop him and they did just that.
The Magic are fourth in the NBA in total defense. They are top five in steals, top 12 in blocks, and top 10 in opponent points in the paint. The Magic also have the second-best shooting percentage from the field. Simply, the Magic get into the paint and stay there. They will body you into next week and if you try to stop them, they will kick it out to the corners or the wings, and will knock down the three.
Pick your poison but guys like Wagner, Black, Suggs, and Anthony will be waiting for their time to shoot. This team is young, hungry, and definitely won’t back down without a fight.