Wagner’s steady scoring pace drives Orlando past Boston in NBA Cup opener
In a promising start to the NBA Cup for the Orlando Magic, Franz Wagner carried the offense with a 27-point performance, while Desmond Bane added 22 points and seven assists as the Magic defeated the Boston Celtics 123-110 on Friday night in Orlando. The team’s mix of veteran savvy and youthful energy appeared to click early, setting a tone for what could become a meaningful run in the league’s heavy early-season schedule.
Bane’s all-around impact complements Wagner’s scoring
Desmond Bane wasn’t just efficient from the field—he orchestrated the Magic’s offense with seven assists, showing off the playmaking ability that makes him a dynamic two-way guard. The synergy between Wagner and Bane was evident, with Wagner drawing defensive attention and opening space for Bane to find teammates or attack the rim. The combination of Wagner’s scoring punch and Bane’s distribution helped Orlando build a double-digit lead and maintain control through the middle and late portions of the game.
Magic run and rhythm
Orlando demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, spreading the floor and exploiting mismatches across the Celtics’ defense. The Magic of this night featured crisp ball movement, timely extra passes, and a willingness to take advantage of open looks from beyond the arc. The team’s length and versatility were on display as multiple players contributed to the scoring surge, allowing Wagner to sit in favorable looks without forcing shots.
Celtics’ James Brown—error-free but outgunned
Boston received a strong 32-point effort from Jaylen Brown, who kept the Celtics within striking distance for much of the game. However, Boston’s offense struggled to keep pace with Orlando’s rhythm, especially when the Magic pushed the pace in transition and forced turnovers that led to quick points. The Celtics’ defense, typically a backbone for their success, faced a tougher assignment against a motivated Magic unit that found open shots and exploited open lanes in the paint.
Key moments and turning points
While the game featured multiple momentum swings, Orlando’s start established the tone. A first-quarter burst, aided by Bane’s precise timing and Wagner’s drive-and-kick game, set a foundation that Boston couldn’t fully overcome. The Magic’s ability to sustain energy and maintain a balanced attack helped them widen the margin in the second half, forcing the Celtics to chase for the remainder of the game.
What this win signals for Orlando
Friday’s performance offered a positive signal for the Magic’s prospects in the NBA Cup and beyond. The team showcased depth, with several role players contributing meaningful minutes and points. If Wagner continues his steady scoring and Bane maintains his dual-threat approach, Orlando could become a tougher matchup for opponents who previously cast the team as underdogs in the early season narrative.
Looking ahead
As the NBA Cup schedule progresses, the Magic will aim to build on this victory by tightening their defense, maintaining ball movement, and capitalizing on the versatility of their roster. For Boston, the lesson may lie in tightening rotations and finding more consistency on the offensive end to complement a strong early game from Brown.
