Orlando Magic Struggle to Maintain Identity Amid Injuries, Losses

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic, once a defensive powerhouse, are struggling to maintain their identity after a 121-94 loss to the Boston Celtics on Friday. The defeat marked their second consecutive blowout loss, raising concerns about the team’s ability to compete without key players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

The Magic, known for their relentless defense, allowed the Celtics to shoot 52.5% from the field and make 17 of 37 three-point attempts. This marked the first time this season that opponents have shot 50% or better against Orlando in back-to-back games. The team’s defensive rating of 134.4 in this game was their worst of the season.

“This team puts up 121? That’s not us,” said a visibly frustrated Magic player. “We’re too good of a defensive team to allow any team in the league to put up that many points. We’ve proven that before. We’ve got to get back to that.”

Orlando’s offensive struggles compounded their defensive woes. The team shot a dismal 15.6% from beyond the arc, making just 5 of 32 attempts. They also missed 10 free throws, further highlighting their inability to keep pace with the Celtics’ scoring.

Jayson Tatum led Boston with 30 points, including 15 in the second quarter, as he exploited mismatches against smaller Magic defenders. The Celtics also dominated the paint, scoring 38 points inside and attempting 22 free throws, 14 of which came in the third quarter.

Head coach Jamahl Mosley acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasized the need to stay focused. “Whether you lose by 20 or lose by two, it still goes into the same column,” Mosley said. “We have to take from each one of them what we can. What did we give up? What did we take away? What are we willing to live with?”

Injuries have taken a toll on the Magic, who have been without Banchero and Wagner for extended periods. Goga Bitadze, their best rim protector this season, has also missed the last two games, further weakening their defense. Since their injury woes began, Orlando has allowed 113.4 points per 100 possessions, a significant drop from their earlier defensive standards.

Despite the setbacks, the Magic remain hopeful. Banchero, who suffered an eye injury during the game, is expected to return soon, and Wagner is progressing in his recovery. “It’s one loss. It’s two in a row,” Mosley added. “We just have to keep our heads in the right space, understand where we can improve, and be ready to go against Denver.”

Orlando’s next challenge comes against the Denver Nuggets, another elite team that will test their resolve. For now, the Magic must find a way to rediscover their defensive identity and weather the storm until their key players return.