Caldwell-Pope Makes Critical Return to Form Ahead of Play-In Game

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic are counting on Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to make an impact as they approach a pivotal Play-In Tournament game against the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. The veteran shooter, who struggled early in the season, has turned his performance around just in time for the postseason.

Caldwell-Pope’s shooting percentage from beyond the arc dipped to 28.9% over the first 33 games of the season. After a standout performance on January 1 against the Detroit Pistons, however, his numbers improved significantly. He recorded a 4-of-6 shooting performance from three-point range, boosting his average to 40.1% on four attempts across the next 42 games.

The 30-year-old has proved instrumental in opening up the floor for his teammates, including stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who excel when attacking the basket. The Magic are set to face the winner of Wednesday’s Play-In game between the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat, and Caldwell-Pope’s accuracy from long range could be crucial for their advancement.

“KCP said he lives for these moments,” Magic guard Cole Anthony said. “He was telling us we’re going to see the ‘Playoff KCP,’ so we all know what that looks like. We’ve all seen what he’s done in the postseason in recent years.”

Caldwell-Pope has a proven track record in the playoffs, averaging 37.8% from three-point range during the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship run in 2020, and improving to 38% with the Denver Nuggets in 2023.

The Magic, who are seeking to advance to the playoffs for a second straight year, have offensively relied on Banchero and third-year forward Wagner, both of whom shot above 32% from distance in the first round against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Caldwell-Pope’s presence could add a much-needed dimension to their game.

“He’s going to help us so much on both ends of the court,” Magic guard Jalen Suggs said. “His shot-making ability and the way he can defend, him leading not only with his voice but by example, is going to help us take that leap.”