Key Takeaways:
- Franz Wagner contributed 21 points as Orlando overcame Charlotte 123-107
- Orlando halted a four-game losing streak and recorded their highest first-half tally this season with 71 points
- LaMelo Ball was fined $35,000 earlier in the day and registered 17 points and 13 assists for the Hornets
Match Analysis
Orlando Magic returned to winning ways on Thursday evening, defeating the Charlotte Hornets 123-107 in Charlotte and bringing an end to their four-game losing run. Despite entering the fixture as questionable due to a left heel contusion, Franz Wagner started and tallied a game-high 21 points, leading the Magic to their second victory in the current campaign.
WAGIC WIN🪄 pic.twitter.com/UU0yGnEOMH
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) October 31, 2025
Paolo Banchero was pivotal for the visitors with an all-round performance, finishing just shy of a triple-double with 18 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists. This marked Orlando’s most productive first half of the season, posting 71 points before the break and establishing a comfortable lead.
| Top Performers | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franz Wagner (Orlando) | 21 | 5 | 3 |
| Paolo Banchero (Orlando) | 18 | 9 | 9 |
| LaMelo Ball (Charlotte) | 17 | 7 | 13 |
Charlotte’s Line-up and Ball’s Fine
For the first time in franchise history, Charlotte started three rookies: Kon Knueppel, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner. Knueppel, who had made 16 three-pointers in his initial four games and sank five versus Miami, was limited to a single three-pointer by Orlando’s defence.
LaMelo Ball delivered his third double-double of the season, closing with 17 points and 13 assists. Earlier in the day, the NBA levied a $35,000 fine on Ball for an obscene gesture during the fourth quarter of a 144-117 defeat to Miami. Over the season, Ball is averaging 26.3 points, 9.5 assists, and 8.3 rebounds.
Game Progression
Orlando built momentum in the second quarter, moving ahead 53-40 with 7:04 left in the half, courtesy of a Desmond Bane basket. The visitors sustained the advantage into half-time at 71-58. A rally from Charlotte in the third period narrowed the gap to 83-76 following Ryan Kalkbrenner’s layup, with Miles Bridges further reducing the deficit to 88-85. However, Orlando maintained resilience, entering the fourth quarter with a 92-85 cushion before Tristan da Silva’s three-pointer expanded the margin to 104-87.
Orlando’s dominance against Charlotte continued as they had swept all four encounters between the teams last season.
What’s Next?
- Magic will travel to meet the Washington Wizards on Saturday
- Hornets are scheduled to host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday
