Just when the Philadelphia 76ers were surging with seven consecutive victories, they surprisingly stumbled against the Orlando Magic.
The Sixers let a 21-point lead dissipate and fell 119-109 to the Magic on Monday.
In an infrequent scheduling twist, the Sixers once again will host the Magic on Wednesday.
Joel Embiid led the way with 30 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, the ninth time this season he has posted at least 30 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. However, Embiid (foot) is listed as questionable for the rematch.
James Harden and Tobias Harris added 17 points apiece, but the Sixers’ defense scuffled in the second half and especially in the final minute with two costly turnovers.
This will be the fourth and final meeting between the Sixers and Magic this season. The 76ers won the first two.
The upstart Magic have continued to improve with a 15-11 mark after a 5-20 start.
Paolo Banchero was stellar with 29 points and nine rebounds. Moritz Wagner scored 22 points and Franz Wagner had 19.
The balanced effort was evident as Wendell Carter Jr. had 12 points and nine rebounds and Markelle Fultz contributed 12 points and 10 assists. Carter (foot) is questionable for Wednesday’s game.
The young Magic have beaten the Boston Celtics three times and the Golden State Warriors twice, and they’ll be looking for their second win against the 76ers.
While they’re far from a finished product, it’s clear that the Magic are trending in a positive direction.
The wins will continue if the Magic keep improving defensively like they did against the Sixers.
