Banchero's 33 Points Propel Magic Past Wizards, 109-97

Paolo Banchero led the Orlando Magic to a 109-97 victory over the Washington Wizards, scoring 33 points and grabbing a career-high 18 rebounds. This win is crucial as the Magic aim to solidify their position in the NBA's Play-In Tournament, currently holding a one-game lead over the Atlanta Hawks for the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. Banchero's performance, which included eight assists, showcased his growth as a multi-category player and has solidified his role as a foundational piece for the team's future. Teammate Franz Wagner also contributed significantly with 27 points, helping the Magic secure their sixth win in eight games. The team, despite facing injuries to key players throughout the season, is focused on maximizing their performance as they approach the postseason. Banchero acknowledged the pressure of the situation but expressed excitement for the challenge ahead.