In a thrilling matchup, the Orlando Magic emerged victorious over the Cleveland Cavaliers with a score of 103-96, forcing a decisive Game 7 in their first-round NBA playoff series. Paolo Banchero was the standout performer for the Magic, scoring 27 points, with 10 crucial points coming in the fourth quarter.
Despite Donovan Mitchell's impressive 50-point performance for the Cavaliers, it was not enough to secure the win. Franz Wagner contributed 26 points, while Jalen Suggs added 22 points, including six 3-pointers, to bolster the Magic's offense.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams trading leads throughout. However, it was Banchero's clutch 3-pointer in the closing minutes that ultimately sealed the victory for Orlando, putting them ahead for good at 92-89.
Cleveland's Mitchell showcased his scoring prowess by netting all 18 of his team's fourth-quarter points. Darius Garland chipped in with 21 points, but the Cavaliers struggled with their 3-point shooting, making only 7 of 28 attempts.
With the series now tied at 3-3, the stage is set for a thrilling Game 7 in Cleveland. The Cavaliers will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage, having won Games 1, 2, and 5 on their home court.
Both teams made strategic lineup adjustments for Game 6, with Orlando inserting Jonathan Isaac into the starting lineup and shifting Wagner to guard, creating a formidable lineup of four 6-foot-10 players. Cleveland adapted to the absence of Jarrett Allen by starting Marcus Morris Sr., who provided a physical presence and contributed 12 points off the bench.
Despite falling behind in the first half, the Cavaliers stayed competitive by attacking the paint effectively, shooting 50% from the field before halftime. They mounted a comeback in the third quarter, fueled by improved 3-point shooting from Mitchell and Max Strus, narrowing the deficit heading into the final period.
As the series heads to a dramatic Game 7, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory and advance to the next round of the playoffs. The Magic aim to secure their first playoff series win in 14 years, while the Cavaliers seek to end their postseason drought and advance to the next round.
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