Franz Wagner hit a decisive three-pointer with three seconds left, lifting the Orlando Magic to a thrilling 119-118 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, ending the Lakers’ unbeaten home record on Thursday. The Crypto.com Arena clash saw Wagner shine with 37 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds, supported by Jalen Suggs with 23 points and Moritz Wagner’s 19 off the bench.
The Lakers, riding a six-game winning streak, were let down by poor free-throw shooting in the final quarter, converting only three of nine attempts. Anthony Davis, despite leading with 39 points, missed two crucial free throws with 19 seconds left. Wagner capitalized, sinking a 26-foot step-back three to seal Orlando’s victory after the Lakers had led 118-114 with 27 seconds remaining.
LeBron James contributed 31 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, while rookie Dalton Knecht added 17 points for the Lakers. The win moves Orlando to 10-7 for the season, while the Lakers drop to 10-5, falling to fourth in the Western Conference.
Spurs Rally Past Jazz, Hornets Edge Pistons in Overtime
Elsewhere, the San Antonio Spurs overturned a 20-point deficit to defeat the Utah Jazz 126-118, improving to 8-8 for the season. Harrison Barnes led the charge with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Stephon Castle and Zach Collins each scored 18. Lauri Markkanen’s 27 points weren’t enough to stop Utah from slipping to their fourth straight loss.
In Charlotte, rookie Brandon Miller exploded for a career-high 38 points, including eight in overtime, to lead the Hornets to a 123-121 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The Hornets now stand at 6-9 for the season.
The struggling Toronto Raptors (4-12) also pulled off an upset, beating the Minnesota Timberwolves 110-105 to notch a rare victory.
