NBA: Magic’s defense stifles Pistons in 4th quarter for win

Detroit Pistons forward Ronald Holland II, center, runs past teammate center Isaiah Stewart (28) as Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac (1) tries to slow him down during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

A 15-0 run in the fourth quarter powered the Orlando Magic to a 111-100 victory over the visiting Detroit Pistons on Saturday for their eighth win in their past nine games in the NBA.

Orlando, undefeated at home this season, led most of the way but was in a competitive contest heading into the fourth quarter. Isaiah Stewart’s layup to open the final period pulled the Pistons to within seven points.

The Magic then demonstrated the defensive tenacity that has them holding opponents to the NBA’s lowest scoring average. Orlando did not surrender a point for the next 5:31 while going on its offensive run.

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The Pistons shot 46.7 percent from the floor, and the Magic defense forced 17 turnovers, which Orlando converted into 29 points.

Big men Goga Bitadze and Jonathan Isaac led Orlando’s defense on the interior, each blocking three shots. Isaac also had two steals and 12 rebounds off the bench.

Gary Harris also came off the bench and made three steals for the Magic.

READ: NBA: Magic rally past Pacers, remain unbeaten at home

When Alondes Williams scored on a layup in the closing seconds, the Pistons ended Orlando’s five-game streak of holding visiting teams under 100 points.

Franz Wagner scored 30 points for the Magic, marking the 11th time in 12 games that he led the team. He also reached 30 for the fourth time in five games and added nine rebounds and eight assists.

Moritz Wagner delivered his own strong all-around game off the bench with 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Fellow Orlando reserves Anthony Black and Jett Howard added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with 19 points as Detroit sought to fill the void it lost with Cade Cunningham sidelined due to an ankle injury. Malik Beasley added 18 points and Marcus Sasser finished with 13 off the bench. –Field Level Media