Magic Steal a Win as Lakers Crumble Towards the End
A heartbreaking loss for the Lakers turned into a pivotal win for the Magic. Orlando entered Crypto.com Arena and narrowly secured a 110–109 victory, extending its winning streak over Los Angeles to four games. The statistics reveal an intriguing contrast. The Magic shot just 24% from three-point range, yet still prevailed by controlling the boards and scoring 58 points in the paint. Although the Lakers outperformed Orlando in overall field goal percentage and three-point shooting, their failure to secure defensive rebounds in the final minute gave the Magic multiple scoring opportunities. Orlando has shown meaningful growth, but as was the case at this time last year, injuries continue to threaten its playoff momentum.
Paolo Banchero Is a Certified Superstar
Despite missing key starters Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs, Paolo Banchero controlled the flow of the game while pouring in 36 points. The Lakers threw a variety of defensive looks at him, from Marcus Smart’s tough perimeter defense to Deandre Ayton contesting him at the rim, yet Banchero remained composed. He finished with 36 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, anchoring Orlando’s offense throughout the night. His ability to draw fouls and convert at the free-throw line provided stability, particularly as the rest of the team struggled from beyond the arc. In a tight contest, Banchero’s poise proved decisive.
Lakers Clutch Execution Crumbled
The Lakers led for roughly 80% of the game and held a 12-point advantage at one stage, but they failed to close it out. Luka Doncic recorded 15 assists, yet his shooting faltered, as he went eight-of-24 from the field and left five critical points at the free-throw line. LeBron James scored 21 points and delivered a key late dunk, but his five turnovers and missed fallaway three at the buzzer contributed to the loss. While Banchero delivered the headline performance, Wendell Carter Jr. secured the win with 20 points and 12 rebounds, including the decisive putback with six seconds remaining. His physical presence in the paint consistently challenged Ayton and the Lakers’ interior defense.
The stat sheet highlights the stylistic contrast between the teams. Orlando shot only 24% from three-point range but won by dominating the glass and scoring 58 points in the paint. The Lakers shot more efficiently from both the field and beyond the arc, yet their inability to finish defensive possessions proved costly. This victory moves the Magic within half a game of sixth place in the Eastern Conference and caps a successful 3-1 West Coast road trip. Meanwhile, the Lakers fall to sixth in the Western Conference following a disappointing 4-4 homestand.
