Orlando MagicOpen full analysis
Indiana PacersOpen full analysis
The Orlando Magic edged the Indiana Pacers 112–110 on December 31st at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a low-scoring affair that finished below the Vegas total of 229.5 points. Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 29 points, while Desmond Bane contributed 18 in a balanced offensive attack that generated 28 assists on 47.8% shooting. Pascal Siakam paced Indiana with 26 points and Benissimo Mathurin added 23, but the Pacers' 43.4% field-goal performance and 12 three-pointers proved insufficient. Orlando's rebounding advantage—49 to 39—proved decisive, as did their efficiency edge: the Magic posted a 98.8 offensive rating against Indiana's 101.8 defensive rating. The Pacers' second quarter was their strongest output at 38 points, yet Orlando's balanced scoring across the first two quarters (31 and 37 points) established control. Indiana's fourth-quarter collapse, scoring just 15 points, sealed the outcome despite forcing 19 Magic turnovers. The loss drops the Pacers further in the Eastern Conference playoff race as Orlando demonstrates improved depth and execution.
