The Kia Center buzzed with excitement as the Orlando Magic delivered a commanding performance to tie their series against the Cleveland Cavaliers at 2-2, sealing a 112-89 victory.
Some fans remarked “this was the best playoff game they’ve ever been to” and it’s hard to argue with that sentiment.
Franz Wagner delivered a MVP caliber performance with 34 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists. The German hooper was everywhere he needed to be on the court, which was fortunate as All-Star Paolo Banchero had an off night, scoring just 9 points on 4/14 shots.
The Magic had five players in double figures, a testament to their offensive skills.
We saw a traditionally slow start in the first quarter from the Magic. The Cavaliers’ Evan Mobley, Darius Garland, and Donovan Mitchell were keeping the Cavs ahead by a slim margin going into the second half. It was a good back and forth that had the Kia Center rocking with every Magic conversion.
In almost mirrored fashion to Game 3, the third quarter was the difference maker. The Magic outscored the Cavs 37-10 in that quarter and significantly turning the tide against the visiting team. The defensive strategy led by Franz Wagner, Jonathan Issac and Mo Wagner smothered the Cavs scoring efforts.
The Orlando Magic continued their barrage of scoring into the fourth quarter to the glee of the 18,933 fans in the arena. Middle of the fourth you could see Cavaliers fans heading for the exits as Magic fans rejoiced over the Magic tying up the series 2-2.
Also to note: the game saw a number of minor altercations, such as a face-to-face confrontation between Jalen Suggs and Darius Garland, as well as a flagrant foul on Strus during the fourth quarter for impeding Cole Anthony’s dunk attempt.
The series now heads to Cleveland for a pivotal Game 5 on Tuesday night at 7pm.
Cover photo credit: moving.pictures
