From 12-0 Down, Franz Wagner Leads Magic to Upset Win Over Knicks: 3 Winners, 2 Losers

Wagner leads the response

Franz Wagner took on a larger role with Paolo Banchero sidelined and delivered 23 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists. Orlando trailed entering the fourth quarter but rallied to secure the win.

The performance offered encouragement as Wagner is expected to carry more responsibility over the coming weeks. The Magic had opened the season with two home losses before this road victory.

Bench contributors make impact

Anthony Black returned from an ankle sprain after missing Orlando’s first two games. Coming off the bench, he made three-pointers and gave the team a needed boost. Tristan da Silva also rebounded from a difficult shooting game against Minnesota. He scored 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including 5-of-9 from three-point range, and provided scoring off the bench.

Richardson struggles in start

Jase Richardson was promoted to the starting lineup, but Orlando fell behind 12-0 during his time on the floor. After he left, the Magic outscored New York 21-16 for the rest of the first quarter.

Richardson finished with a team-low minus-24. The report questioned whether he was ready for the starting role and said his place in the lineup against Toronto was uncertain.

Bitadze left out of rotation

Goga Bitadze, who had played backup center in the previous two games, did not play against New York. The report linked the decision to the matchup, noting that Karl-Anthony Towns often operates on the perimeter.

Bitadze’s absence raised a question about his role going forward. Orlando is set to travel to Toronto for a two-game trip.