The Orlando Magic defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 121-83, at Kia Center on Thursday in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference first round in the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
The Magic had looked sloppy and non-responsive in the first two games of the series in Cleveland. However, Orlando woke up and ignited some much-needed life to its offense, resulting in a massive 38-point win Thursday. The Magic looked dominant early on despite Cleveland’s strong start, and they quickly raced to a 31-21 lead following the first quarter. Unsurprisingly given their situation in the series, the Magic would never let the game go. The lead was 24 points by the time the first half ended, and the Magic didn’t slow their intensity in the second half. The Cavaliers looked sloppy on offense and were limited to 16 points in the third quarter, so the game was essentially over by the time the third quarter ended. The Magic closed things out with ease in the final 12 minutes to secure the lead and put the series 2-1. Game 4 will be played Saturday at Kia Center.
Paolo Banchero led the way for the Magic with a 31-point, 14-rebound double-double. Jalen Suggs posted 24 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Franz Wagner delivered 16 points, eight assists and five rebounds. Markelle Fultz had 11 points and two boards coming off the bench. Cole Anthony added 10 points. Wendell Carter finished with only two points. The Magic shot 51.1 percent from the field and 35.1 percent from deep.
Jarrett Allen was the only Cavaliers starter who reached the 15-point mark after ending with 15 points and eight rebounds. Donovan Mitchell had 13 points, seven assists and five rebounds. Evan Mobley posted 10 points. Caris LeVert scored 15 points coming off the bench. The Cavaliers shot 39 percent from the field and 23.5 percent from deep.
