Magic rally to defeat Jazz, look to face Bucks twice before All-Star break

Orlando overcomes 17-point deficit to win 120-117, but knows it can play better heading into final two games before league break.

Feb. 8, 2026 at 2:55pm

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The Orlando Magic managed to rally and defeat the Utah Jazz 120-117 on Saturday at Kia Center, despite Utah taking a 17-point lead in the third quarter. However, the Magic know they can play better as they prepare to face the Milwaukee Bucks twice before the NBA All-Star break.

Why it matters

The win was important for the Magic to remain afloat in the Eastern Conference playoff race, while the Jazz needed the loss to help secure better positioning in the upcoming NBA draft. The game highlighted the Magic's ability to overcome a large deficit, but also exposed areas they need to improve on heading into their final two games before the All-Star break.

The details

The Jazz outscored the Magic 35-21 in the second quarter to take an 11-point lead into halftime. Utah's lead grew to 17 points in the third quarter, but the Magic ended the frame on a 10-0 run to cut the deficit to single digits. Jazz coach Will Hardy then benched most of his starters, including Jaren Jackson Jr. and Lauri Markkanen, allowing the Magic to rally for the win. While the Jazz may have intentionally lost to improve their draft position, the Magic still needed the victory to stay in the playoff hunt.

  • The Magic overcame a 17-point deficit in the third quarter on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • The Magic and Bucks will play twice more before the NBA All-Star break, with the first game on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Paolo Banchero

A forward for the Orlando Magic.

Moe Wagner

A big man for the Orlando Magic.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A three-time NBA All-Defensive center who made his debut for the Utah Jazz after being traded from the Memphis Grizzlies.

Lauri Markkanen

A forward for the Utah Jazz who led all scorers with 27 points in the game.

Will Hardy

The head coach of the Utah Jazz.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Magic will face the Bucks twice more before the NBA All-Star break, with the first game on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The takeaway

While the Magic were able to rally for the win against the Jazz, they know they can play better as they head into their final two games before the NBA All-Star break. The team is focused on improving their performance and remaining in the Eastern Conference playoff race.