UPDATE: The Orlando Magic suffered a disappointing defeat against the Charlotte Hornets, losing 120-105 at the Kia Center on December 15, 2023. Coach Jamahl Mosley had warned that Charlotte’s poor 10-20 record did not reflect their capabilities, and he was proven right as the Hornets dominated the game.
In a matchup marked by a lack of energy and effort from Orlando, the Magic found themselves trailing by as many as 24 points in the third quarter. The Hornets, led by LaMelo Ball with 22 points, showcased their offensive prowess, shooting 48.7% from beyond the arc compared to Orlando’s 31.4%. The rebounding battle tilted heavily in Charlotte’s favor, with a decisive 53-42 advantage and 25 second-chance points.
Orlando, now 17-14 for the season, struggled offensively, with star players like Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane failing to find their rhythm. Banchero shot only 4 for 13, finishing with 13 points, while Bane was in foul trouble, eventually scoring 15 points but with a disappointing shooting night.
The Magic faced further challenges, playing without key players Franz Wagner (left high ankle sprain) and Jalen Suggs (left hip bruise). Despite a bright spot from rookie Anthony Black, who scored 24 points, Orlando’s efforts fell short. The team returns to action at the Kia Center tomorrow, facing the Denver Nuggets and three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who previously defeated them by 11 points on December 18.
In an uplifting moment, the Magic, during halftime, surprised a local family with a range of gifts, including a new 2026 Kia Sorento EX, as part of the NBA Cares Season of Giving initiative. This marked the 17th consecutive season the team has hosted “The Big Give,” showcasing the Magic’s commitment to community support.
As Orlando gears up for their next challenge, fans are left hoping for a turnaround in performance. Stay tuned for updates on tomorrow’s game against the Nuggets, an essential matchup for a team eager to regain its momentum.
