CLEVELAND — The Orlando Magic pulled off a surprising victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning 108-103 on Sunday, and halting the Cavaliers’ formidable 16-game winning streak. Paolo Banchero led the charge for the Magic, scoring 24 points, while Franz Wagner contributed 22 points in a performance that took the Eastern Conference leaders by surprise.
The Cavaliers had not experienced a loss since February 4th, but despite this remarkable run, they faltered in the final minutes against Orlando. A crucial setback came as Cleveland missed five critical shots in the last minute, including three attempts from All-Star Donovan Mitchell.
Banchero secured Orlando’s lead with a 16-foot jumper, putting the Magic up 104-103. Cleveland’s De’Andre Hunter then missed a vital three-pointer, allowing Orlando’s Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to capitalize with two successful free throws, extending the Magic’s lead to three points with just 31 seconds remaining.
In Cleveland’s final possession, Max Strus attempted a tying three-pointer, but it was unsuccessful. As Cleveland scrambled to recover, Orlando’s defense heavily guarded Mitchell, resulting in two missed three-point attempts.
Although Banchero struggled with his shooting—hitting only 6 out of 22 attempts—he made up for it with 11 rebounds and seven assists. Wendell Carter Jr. bolstered the Magic’s efforts with 16 points and 14 rebounds.
Donovan Mitchell, who returned after missing two games due to a sore groin, led the Cavaliers with 23 points. Jarrett Allen also made a substantial contribution with 20 points and 12 rebounds. However, the absence of All-Star forward Evan Mobley, who was sidelined with a bruised foot, left the Cavs short-handed.
The Orlando Magic showcased their resilience despite missing key players like Mo Wagner and Jalen Suggs from last season. The Magic’s win marks only the second time in 22 games that Cleveland has faltered.
The Cavaliers’ recent challenge has been executing under pressure in late-game situations, an issue that needs addressing as the playoffs approach. A pivotal turning point during the game was when the Cavaliers, leading by eight points in the third quarter, conceded three turnovers in a span of just 27 seconds. The Magic seized this opportunity, responding with a ten-point run.
Another notable aspect of the match was De’Andre Hunter experiencing his first loss with Cleveland since arriving from Atlanta in a trade deadline move, having previously contributed to 13 straight victories.
Looking ahead, the Orlando Magic are set to face the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers are embarking on a challenging five-game road trip, starting with a contest against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.
