Magic Defeat 76ers 112-108 in Play-In Game Behind Banchero and Wagner

The Orlando Magic edged out the Philadelphia 76ers 112-108 in a tightly contested Play-In Tournament game at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Wednesday night. With Joel Embiid ruled out due to an abdominal injury, Orlando capitalized on Philadelphia’s weakened frontcourt, led by Paolo Banchero’s 24 points and 9 rebounds. Franz Wagner added 19 points and 6 assists while Tyrese Maxey struggled to find his rhythm, finishing with 23 points on 8-of-20 shooting.

This victory gives the Magic the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs and a first-round matchup against the Boston Celtics. The 76ers, now facing an elimination game on Friday, will need to regroup quickly if they hope to extend their season.

Philadelphia entered the game as a narrow favorite despite Embiid’s absence. Maxey was expected to carry the offensive load, and he did in spurts, including a 9-0 run in the second quarter that gave the Sixers a brief lead. But Orlando’s defense, which ranks in the top 10 in defensive efficiency this season, held strong. The Magic limited the 76ers to just 38 percent shooting from the field and forced 14 turnovers.

Wendell Carter Jr. was a key factor on both ends of the floor, recording 12 rebounds and three blocks while holding his own against Andre Drummond. Orlando’s size and length proved to be a problem for Philadelphia’s perimeter-heavy lineup. The Magic outscored the 76ers 46-32 in the paint and grabbed a 48-38 rebounding advantage.

The backcourt battle between Jalen Suggs and Desmond Bane and Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe was a key storyline. Suggs and Bane combined for 11 deflections and four steals. Edgecombe, who averaged 16 points per game during the regular season, struggled to find his shot, finishing with just 8 points on 3-of-10 shooting.

The Magic took control in the fourth quarter after a 9-2 run capped by a three-point play from Wagner with 3:20 remaining. Maxey answered with a tough pull-up jumper, but Orlando’s defense held firm down the stretch. Banchero iced the game with a pair of free throws in the final 10 seconds.

Philadelphia will now face the winner of the Lakers-Sonics Play-In Game on Friday. Orlando will begin its playoff series against the Celtics on Saturday.