Paolo Banchero shoots perfect from the field to lead Orlando Magic over Brooklyn Nets

The Orlando Magic came into this game on a 2-game losing streak, but they were able to take care of business in this contest as they defeated the Brooklyn Nets 114-106 at Kia Center thanks to Paolo Banchero’s perfect shooting night.

The first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft has been having a stellar sophomore season as he’s averaging 22.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists. The reigning Rookie of the Year made his first All-Star appearance last month and is leading the Magic to the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-20 season.

Banchero led his team with 21 points and 9 assists, but more impressively shot 6/6 from the field. Wendell Carter Jr. finished with 15 points and 8 rebounds while Franz Wagner had 14 points, 5 boards, 6 assists, and 3 steals. Jalen Suggs scored 14 points while Gary Harris had 13 points to round out the starting 5.

Cam Thomas led the Nets with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Mikal Bridges scored 17 points while Dennis Schroder and Cam Johnson each finished with 13 points. Nic Claxton recorded 10 points, 5 boards, 5 assists, and 2 blocks.

Orlando improves to 38-28 with this win and remain the 5th seed in the East . They sit just 0.5 games behind the Knicks for the 4th seed, so this victory is huge for them as they want to jump up and host a round 1 playoff series. The Magic is 7-3 over their last 10 games and will look to build off this game on Friday against the Toronto Raptors.

Brooklyn drops to 26-40 with this loss and remains the 11th seed out East. This has been a disappointing season for them as they have never been able to find a rhythm the entire year. The Nets are 5-5 over their last 10 games and will face off against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday.