The Orlando Magic (34-46) have been dealt yet another blow in their quest for a playoff spot as they were eliminated from contention on Tuesday night. However, they still had one final home game left to play against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately for the Magic faithful, the Cavs (51-30) managed to spoil their final home game, winning 118-94.
Both teams had significant injury concerns coming into the game, with the Magic missing a total of six players, including Jonathan Isaac, Wendell Carter Jr., and Markelle Fultz. The Cavs were also without some key players, including Jarrett Allen and Darius Garland.
Despite a scorching start for the Magic, scoring 42 points in the first quarter, the Cavs were able to mount a comeback and take control of the game. They held the Magic to just 31 points in the second and third quarters combined, while also limiting their shooting percentages to under 40% from the field and under 33% from three-point range.
Jalen Suggs had a standout performance for the Magic with 22 points and 5 rebounds, but it was not enough to overcome the Cavs. Bol Bol and Jay Scrubb also contributed with 18 and 11 points respectively.
For the Cavs, Danny Green led the way with 21 points, while Cedi Osman and Isaiah Mobley chipped in with 19 and 18 points each. Lamar Stevens and Mamadi Diakite also had solid performances with 13 points apiece.
The win for the Cavs not only clinches their first playoff berth since 1998 without LeBron James on their roster, but it also solidifies their position as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. They will face the New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs.
As for the Magic, they will have to wrap up their regular season with road games against the Brooklyn Nets and the Miami Heat before heading into the draft lottery for the third straight season. Despite their disappointing end to the season, the Magic will have plenty of opportunities to improve their roster in the upcoming draft and offseason.
Full Game Highlights
For more sports coverage from MLB, NBA, NFL, to NCAA contact Julian Ojeda: Call 786-501-9082 | Email: julianojeda@wepa.fm
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