The Orlando Magic relied on timely three-point shooting and a substantial free-throw advantage to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 128-122 on Wednesday night, extending their winning streak to five games.
Orlando converted 28 of 37 attempts from the foul line, while Cleveland hit just 17 of 26. The difference at the stripe proved decisive in a game that featured accurate shooting on both sides.
Key performers
- Magic guard Desmond Bane scored a game-high 35 points, including a leaning three-pointer in the final minute that put the contest out of reach.
- Cavaliers guard James Harden paced Cleveland with 30 points and eight assists on 11-of-16 shooting.
- Donovan Mitchell finished with 24 points for the Cavaliers but shot 9-for-24 from the field.
- Evan Mobley recorded an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double for Cleveland.
- Keon Ellis added 20 points off the bench for the Cavs, while Sam Merrill chipped in 13 and Thomas Bryant had 12.
At a glance
- When: Wednesday, March — (date not specified in original report)
- Where: Orlando, Florida
- Records: Cavaliers 40-26; Magic 36-28
The Cavaliers, playing without injured center Jarrett Allen, struggled to contain Orlando’s size and committed frequent fouls that led to the Magic’s 37 free-throw attempts. Cleveland also missed nine of its own chances at the line.
Despite the loss, the Cavaliers remained optimistic thanks to their recent form since acquiring Harden. Cleveland has generally bounced back quickly after setbacks.
Next up
Cleveland travels to Dallas on Friday before hosting the Mavericks on Sunday in the teams’ only two meetings this season.
Source: Hoops Wire
