NBA: Magic defeat Wizards 125-121, keep streak alive

By Robert Beltran
EBC Florida Bureau

ORLANDO, Fla. (Eagle News) – Building off of their two previous wins against the 76ers and the Spurs, the Orlando Magic continued their streak by defeating divisional foe Washington Wizards 125 to 121.

The Magic were efficient, shooting 49.4% for the night while receiving normal contributions from Nikola Vucevic, 30 points and 17 rebounds, and Evan Fournier, 25 points. Markelle Fultz continued to find his rhythm within the starting line-up as he scored a career high 19 points.

“When I’m making shots, it just opens everything else,” said Fultz. “I feel like I got confidence and enough game to get to the paint whenever I want. And if I’m hitting [shots], you know it’s going to be a tough night [for the defense].”

Despite overall good defense by the Magic, the Wizards made a strong push to take the lead near the end of regulation, led by Bradley Beal’s 34 points.

“The Brad Beal shot making in the fourth quarter was why people come pay money to watch great players play,” said Magic Head Coach Steve Clifford. “I thought our defense, without watching the film, was actually not bad. He just made a bunch of shots that a great shot maker makes.”

In the fourth quarter with the Wizards mounting a comeback, and the score 119-116, Fultz made a huge steal, driving in for the slam and one.

On where this game-saving play ranks for Fultz, he stated “anytime I get a chance to make a big-time play, especially in clutch moments, it’s one of the tops.”

Coach Clifford added, “He did what he was supposed to do, then made a terrific play. And obviously a great finish and a free throw.”

With this win, the Magic improve to 4-1 at home, however they have not found any success on the road. Their next four games will be on the road, beginning with a match up against reigning NBA Champs Toronto Raptors.

“To get those wins against good quality teams feels good,” said D.J. Augustin. “We just got to take that momentum and get one on the road. We haven’t won one on the road, so hopefully we start something going.

Guard Markelle Fultz drives the lane for a tough, contested lay-up. Fultz would go on to score a total of 19 points, a career high. Photo by Robert Beltran, EBC Florida Bureau, Eagle News Service.

Center Nikola Vucevic posts up Thomas Bryant. Vucevic had another double-double, with 30 points and 17 rebounds. Photo by Robert Beltran, EBC Florida Bureau, Eagle News Service.

(Eagle News Service)