Paolo Banchero scored 36 points, and Wendell Carter Jr. hit a go-ahead putback with 6.7 seconds remaining to lift the Orlando Magic to a 110-109 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night, capping a strong West Coast trip.
Desmond Bane added 22 points, and Carter finished with 20 points and 12 rebounds as Orlando won its fourth straight game over the Lakers and six of eight overall since the All-Star break. The Magic have moved within half a game of sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Jalen Suggs missed his third straight game with a back strain.
Luka Doncic scored 22 points and dished out 15 assists, while LeBron James and Deandre Ayton each had 21 points for Los Angeles. Austin Reaves added all 18 of his points in the second half. The Lakers missed a chance to steal the game as James’ final 3-pointer fell short. Backup center Jaxson Hayes remained out with an ankle injury.
The Magic overcame an early double-digit deficit, and a late sequence saw Bane hit a go-ahead 3 with 34.6 seconds left before Carter’s putback sealed the win.
Up next: The Magic host Houston on Thursday, and the Lakers visit Phoenix on Thursday.
