The Orlando Magic made sure their campaign won’t be ending on the final day of the 2023-24 NBA regular season as Cole Anthony waxed hot off the bench with 21 points to help his team secure at least a play-in spot with a clinical 112-92 win over the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday at Kia Center.
The Magic demonstrated cohesiveness and efficiency to keep their card spotless in three regular-season meetings against the Hornets, shooting a staggering 54 FG% and recording 32 assists.
ORLANDO MAGIC OH OH OHHHHH https://t.co/LZFkKtQJOe pic.twitter.com/SFU2UpTq4Q
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 20, 2024
In a game where Orlando only gathered a total of 24 points from their frontcourt stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Anthony stepped in and led a balanced offensive onslaught. The dynamic guard shot 9-for-12 from the field to go along with 6 rebounds and 3 assists.
The Magic dominated the visiting team right from the tip-off, racing to a 27-17 advantage in the first quarter before dropping 40 points in the second period to extend their lead 67-32 at the break.
Behind Brandon Miller and Vasilije Micic, Charlotte shot the ball better in the second half and outscored the Magic 33-24 in the third quarter and 27-21 in the fourth. However, the 35-point lead that Orlando built in the first half proved just too much to cover.
WAGIC WIN ???? pic.twitter.com/ERylaycn3F
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 20, 2024
Miller finished the game with 21 points and Micic tallied 20 points for the Hornets, who dropped to 17-52 in the season. Orlando’s winning streak hit four games but they will be tested in the coming games as they will take on Western Conference team in the next six games, including Thursday’s showdown with the New Orleans Pelicans.
THE CONVERSATION.