Franz Wagner scores 21 as Orlando Magic beat Chicago Bulls 103-97

In a déjà vu moment, the Orlando Magic once again limited the Chicago Bulls to a mere 33 points in the first half, witnessing a familiar scenario of their 19-point lead slipping away, yet emerging victorious with a 103-97 win in an NBA In-Season Tournament game on Friday night.

Franz Wagner showcased his prowess with 21 points, complemented by Jonathan Isaac's 18, solidifying the Magic's resilience. Reflecting on the recurring theme, Gary Harris noted the team's ability to face the same test and come together, despite deviations from their ideal game plan.

The game's unfolding mirrored their previous encounter in Chicago just two nights prior. Orlando, maintaining its defensive prowess, stifled Chicago in the first half, only to experience a precarious lead vanishing act, ultimately securing a 96-94 win. This time around, Wagner's go-ahead three-point play in the final minute and Isaac's clutch free throws sealed the fate, handing the Bulls their seventh loss in nine games.

Zach LaVine led Chicago's charge with 35 points, while DeMar DeRozan contributed 23 after returning from a personal absence. Alex Caruso added 18 points, showcasing his proficiency with four 3-pointers.

Jonathan Isaac, overcoming seasons marred by injury, achieved his highest point total since 2019, emphasizing the team's growing belief. Harris and Paolo Banchero's contributions further underscored the Magic's collective effort.

Despite a 15-point lead for the Magic midway through the fourth quarter, Chicago countered with a formidable 16-0 run, spearheaded by LaVine. The back-and-forth intensity saw Harris halting the Bulls' surge with a crucial corner 3. The closing minutes saw Caruso's free throws and a pivotal 3-pointer, propelling the Bulls to a momentary lead.

However, Orlando responded emphatically. Wagner's acrobatic layup and subsequent free throw edged them ahead. Vucevic's missed 3 and Isaac's free throws secured the 101-97 lead, while Harris's defensive prowess and free throws in the final seconds sealed the hard-fought victory.

The Bulls, having set an NBA season low for a first half with 33 points in their previous game, repeated the feat in this matchup, trailing 48-33 at halftime.

Looking ahead, the Magic gear up to face Indiana on Sunday and host Toronto in their next In-Season Tournament game on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Bulls have a challenging schedule, hosting Miami twice in the next three days and visiting Toronto on November 24 for their next In-Season Tournament game.