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Cole Anthony Leads Magic to Playoff Berth
Cole Anthony exploded off the bench, delivering a game-high 26 points and 6 assists to power the Orlando Magic to a dominant 120-95 victory over the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Play-In Tournament. This electrifying performance secured the Magic the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference and a first-round matchup against the Boston Celtics, starting April 20, 2025. Anthony's crucial contribution came at a time when the Magic's star players, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, struggled to find their rhythm.
A Stellar Team Effort
While Anthony stole the show, the Magic's win was a testament to their team depth. Banchero nearly achieved a triple-double (17 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists), Wendell Carter Jr. added 19 points and 7 rebounds, and rookie Anthony Black impressed with 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting. The Magic's bench outscored Atlanta's 57-30, highlighting their ability to overcome adversity.
Hawks' Frustration Mounts
On the other side, the Hawks, led by Trae Young's 28 points and 6 assists, struggled to contain Orlando's offensive surge. Young's frustration ultimately boiled over, resulting in an ejection late in the fourth quarter after receiving two technical fouls. This pivotal moment effectively sealed the Magic's victory.
What's Next for the Magic?
The Magic's playoff berth marks a significant achievement for a young, developing team. Their upcoming series against the Boston Celtics promises to be a thrilling challenge. While the Magic split their regular season series with the Celtics, the upcoming playoff series presents a whole new level of intensity. Cole Anthony's performance in the Play-In Tournament showcased his potential to be a game-changer in the postseason.
Cole Anthony's Resurgence
Anthony's performance was especially noteworthy given his inconsistent season due to injuries and fluctuating playing time. This game proved that despite the challenges, he can be a key factor in the Magic's success. His leadership and ability to elevate his game when it matters most will be crucial for Orlando's playoff run.
