NBA

Top draft pick Paolo Banchero 'proud' of Magic victory against league-leading Celtics

By Sports Desk December 17, 2022 901

The Orlando Magic have quietly won five games in a row, punctuating their terrific form with a surprise 117-109 upset on the road against the league-leading Boston Celtics on Friday.

Orlando had lost nine in a row prior to their current streak, following it with four consecutive home wins against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Atlanta Hawks and back-to-back victories over the Toronto Raptors before heading to Boston.

They were led by this year's number one draft pick Paolo Banchero, with the 20-year-old posting 20 points, five rebounds and five assists, but it was the less-heralded Wagner brother doing the most damage.

Mo Wagner was the Magic's top-scorer with 25 points on nine-of-12 shooting in 23 minutes, while younger brother Franz Wagner chipped in 19 points on a far less efficient six-of-19.

There were also strong signs of life from starting point guard and former number one overall draft pick Markelle Fultz, with 12 points (five-of-10), four rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Speaking to the media after the game, Banchero said his side were not looking for excuses against a Boston side entering the game with the league's best record at 22-7 and 11-2 at home.

"One of the coaches came up to me before the game and said: 'We’re on the road against the best team in the NBA. Either we can prove that we’re a good team and really rolling, or blame that we’re on the road and just roll over.'

"We didn’t want to do that. To get a lead and keep a lead is the biggest thing I’m proud of about tonight."

Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley pointed towards his side's willingness to stick to the game plan and "stay the course".

"They went on their run in the third, but our guys understand that they have to stay the course and continue to communicate with one another, and stick back to the principles of what we do," he said.

That message about staying the course stuck, at least with Mo Wagner, who echoed his coach in his on-court interview.

"I think we've been very consistent with our work all year, and it's starting to translate," he said. "We've done a great job focusing on the game plan, and I think with a young team that's a challenge. 

"It's finally translating to wins, so now it's up to us to stay solid, keep going and keep staying the course."

Franz chose to highlight the Orlando defense against what he pointed out is a historically good Boston offense.

"They're the best offense in the league," he said. "Their numbers – even historically – match up really well.

"They shoot the ball really well, they play really free and creative basketball. It required multiple efforts, and I thought we did that tonight."

The Magic will get a chance to prove it was no fluke on Sunday when they remain in Boston for another crack at the Celtics.

Last modified on Saturday, 17 December 2022 08:52
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