By Robert Beltran
EBC Florida Bureau

ORLANDO, FLA. (Eagle News) – Following the lead of forward Aaron Gordon, the Orlando Magic once again exhibited offensive proficiency, defeating the Phoenix Suns 128-114. With Nikola Vucevic still out with an ankle injury, Gordon led the Magic with 32 points. Guard Evan Fournier, who scored consecutive 30-plus point games in the last two games, added 21.

On the team’s offensive play, Gordan said, “When the ball moves, it just makes everybody relaxed. It makes everybody more comfortable and that level of comfort is really what you need to play offense. Moving the ball, looking for the right shot.”

“We have guys who are good shooters, who are…getting into rhythm and we’re starting to shoot the ball a lot better,” added Orlando Magic Head Coach Steve Clifford.

With this being the second game of a back to back and third win in a row, Coach Clifford was pleased with the teams energy and purpose of play but voiced concern about their defensive play.

“Our one-on-one defense tonight was awful. We won tonight cuz we made a bunch of shots. Last night was the same thing. Neither one of these are defensive games that you’re gonna win with consistency night in and night out,” said Clifford.

While the Phoenix Suns started the game red hot taking an early 37-31 lead in the first quarter, Orlando would find their shooting touch in the second quarter. They would take a 65-58 lead at the half and never looked back.

The Suns center Frank Kaminsky scored 23 points but 21 of those came in the first half where he shot 9-of-11 from the field and 3-of-4 from 3-point range. Although Kaminsky had the hot hand in the first half, he only took one shot the remainder of the game. Devin Booker was featured more in the second half, adding 17 points.

Filling in for the injured Vucevic, center Mo Bamba filled a need defensively, grabbing 11 total rebounds and four blocked shots. His offensive game also continued to shine, adding 10 points and going 2-of-2 from behind the arc.

“I think he just played well…and tonight might have been his best game…he’s made good progress since last year,” said Coach Clifford in regards to Bamba’s second-year progress. “It’s a tough position. He’s a young guy; learning how to play that center spot is not easy. It’s physical in there and I think that he’s getting better.”

Without their big man in the middle, the Magic will need to rely on each other again as they travel to Cleveland to face the Cavaliers. “We’re just holding it down until Vooch gets back because we need him in the long run,” said Gordon. “Everybody is just stepping up.”

 

 

 

(Eagle News Service)