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Magic Conjure Victory Over Pelicans, Maintain Winning Record

The Orlando Magic, now at 45-31, cast a spell over the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 117-108. The Magic's performance was marked by a strong offensive showing and solid defense throughout the game. The Pelicans, matching the Magic's record at 45-31, fought valiantly but ultimately fell short in their home venue of Smoothie King Center.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 3:  Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans and Wendell Carter Jr. #34 of the Orlando Magic go up for the opening tip off on April 3, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

The Orlando Magic showcased their offensive might by shooting an impressive 51 percent from the field and an effective field goal percentage of 59. Their three-point attempts were also fruitful with a 41 percent success rate contributing to their total score. The team's free throw efforts yielded a 73 percent completion rate which helped maintain their lead against the Pelicans.


Defensively, the Magic held firm with two blocks and nine steals that contributed to their nine-plus efficiency margin over the Pelicans. They dominated both ends of the court with a total rebound count of 49 compared to New Orleans' 42 rebounds. This included seven offensive rebounds which allowed for second-chance points that kept momentum on Orlando's side.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 3:  Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans grabs a rebound during the game against the Orlando Magic on April 3, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

A key aspect of Orlando's victory was their ability to capitalize on turnovers; they scored 18 points off turnovers while maintaining control over possession throughout most of the game. Their largest lead stretched to an impressive twenty points as they led for nearly half an hour during playtime.


The bench played a significant role in this win by adding forty points to Orlando’s tally, showcasing depth and versatility within their roster. Assists were plentiful as well; twenty-seven assists demonstrated effective ball movement and teamwork leading to high-percentage shots.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 3:  Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans grabs a rebound during the game against the Orlando Magic on April 3, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

On the other side, despite being outperformed overall, New Orleans managed fast break opportunities effectively with seventy percent success from fast break attempts resulting in twenty-two fast break points. They also showed resilience under pressure making eighty-six percent of free throws even though they faced three ejections during playtime.


Attendance at Smoothie King Center numbered sixteen thousand four hundred twenty-seven fans who witnessed this competitive match-up where both teams had moments leading up until there were three ties and one lead change before Orlando took control for good.


Looking ahead for fans eager to support their team in upcoming games: The next challenge for Orlando will be against Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on April fifth at seven PM Eastern Time broadcasted on BSSE and BSFL networks.

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