ORLANDO, FL — The Orlando Magic put together one of their most complete performances of the preseason Tuesday night, cruising past the Cleveland Cavaliers 132-116 in front of 16,468 fans at Kia Center.
Led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Orlando never trailed, built a lead as large as 31 points, and improved to 2-1 in preseason play.
Banchero delivered an efficient 24-point performance, shooting an impressive 10-of-13 from the field in less than 28 minutes. Wagner added 20 points and eight assists in approximately 22 minutes, giving Magic fans another glimpse of the chemistry developing between Orlando’s two young stars.
Magic Take Control Early
Orlando established its rhythm from the opening tip, leading 35-28 after the first quarter before pulling away for a commanding 72-52 halftime advantage.
By the end of the third quarter, the Magic had stretched their lead to 108-83, overwhelming Cleveland with efficient shooting, unselfish ball movement, and a dominant rebounding performance.
The Magic shot 51.5% from the field, knocked down 16 three-pointers, and recorded 34 assists on 50 made baskets. Orlando also controlled the glass, outrebounding Cleveland 54-38.
Head coach Sean Sweeney praised the team’s offensive execution and the growing connection between Banchero and Wagner.
“I love how they’re playing together and the way they started the game,” Sweeney said.
Jalen Suggs Returns, Bench Delivers
Another encouraging development for Orlando was the return of Jalen Suggs, who made his preseason debut after missing the team’s first two games because of illness.
Suggs wasted little time making an impact, scoring nine points in just under 13 minutes while connecting on three of four attempts from beyond the arc.
His defensive intensity also caught Sweeney’s attention, with the coach describing his point-of-attack defense as “spectacular.”
Orlando’s second unit provided plenty of support.
Tristan da Silva finished with 18 points and four three-pointers, while Noah Penda contributed 14 points and Jase Richardson added 10.
The balanced scoring helped the Magic maintain control even as the coaching staff rotated players throughout the second half.
Cavaliers Struggle to Keep Pace
Cleveland had few answers for Orlando’s offensive attack.
Meleek Thomas led the Cavaliers with 16 points off the bench, while Donovan Mitchell scored 15 and James Harden added 13 on 3-of-12 shooting.
Orlando’s ability to generate quality looks, control the boards, and capitalize on Cleveland’s mistakes ultimately proved too much for the visitors.
Orlando Building Momentum Ahead of Regular Season
Despite the convincing victory, Sweeney emphasized that the Magic remain focused on establishing their identity heading into the 2026-27 campaign.
“We’re still trying to get that foundation in place and then add layers to it,” Sweeney said. “We’ve done a nice job, and now we’ve got to keep building.”
With Banchero and Wagner setting the tone, Suggs returning to action, and the bench producing, Orlando has plenty of positives to build on.
The Magic will wrap up their preseason Friday, October 16, against the Miami Heat before opening the regular season Wednesday, October 21, at home against the Atlanta Hawks.
For Orlando, Tuesday’s performance offered an encouraging preview of what this young, talented roster could deliver when the games begin to count.
