“Orlando Magic Stun Denver Nuggets with Paolo Banchero’s Triple-Double-Led Comeback”
In a thrilling turn of events, the Orlando Magic orchestrated a remarkable comeback against the Denver Nuggets, securing a 122-120 victory. Paolo Banchero, in his first career triple-double, played a pivotal role, hitting two crucial free throws with 9.7 seconds left to seal the win.
Banchero’s stellar performance included 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. The Magic, facing an 18-point deficit in the third quarter, rallied against a fatigued Nuggets team. Banchero, going 15 of 19 from the free-throw line, emphasized the team’s positive energy and determination not to be overwhelmed by the Nuggets.
Tied at 120, the Nuggets had an opportunity to take the lead, but a steal from Moritz Wagner and a foul drawn by Banchero turned the tide in Orlando’s favor. Despite Jamal Murray’s attempt to tie the game with a 10-foot shot at the buzzer, the Magic secured the hard-fought win.
The Nuggets, coming off a comeback victory against the Golden State Warriors, struggled in the third quarter, where they were outscored 41-31. Coach Michael Malone expressed disappointment in his team’s third-quarter defense, emphasizing the need for improvement.
Jalen Suggs contributed a career-high 27 points for the short-handed Magic, who had several key players sidelined, including Markelle Fultz, Gary Harris, and Jonathan Isaac. Despite the challenges, the Magic showcased character and confidence, epitomized by Suggs’ outstanding 3-point shooting.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, while Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray added 22 and 20 points, respectively. The Nuggets acknowledged the difficulty in finding a balance within their talented roster, with Porter mentioning the challenge of identifying the hot hand in each game.
Magic coach Jamahl Mosley, with strong ties to Denver, having played college basketball nearby and started his NBA coaching career under George Karl, celebrated the memorable victory. Mosley values the advice he receives from Karl, highlighting its significance in his coaching journey.
