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Orlando Magic defeat New Orleans Pelicans 112-108
Rookie Paolo Banchero leads Orlando to narrow victory over Western Conference rival
Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:18am
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The Orlando Magic defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 112-108 in a close NBA matchup. Rookie forward Paolo Banchero had a standout performance for the Magic, scoring 23 points and grabbing 16 rebounds to lead his team to victory over the Pelicans.
Why it matters
This win is an important early-season result for the Orlando Magic, who are looking to build on a promising young core and return to the playoffs after missing out last season. The Pelicans, meanwhile, will need to regroup after this close loss to a conference rival.
The details
The game was tightly contested throughout, with neither team able to pull away. Banchero, the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, had a dominant double-double to pace the Magic. Franz Wagner added 11 points and 5 assists for Orlando. For the Pelicans, the scoring was led by Naji Marshall with 23 points.
- The game was played on April 6, 2026.
The players
Paolo Banchero
Rookie forward for the Orlando Magic, selected first overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Franz Wagner
Second-year forward for the Orlando Magic.
Naji Marshall
Forward for the New Orleans Pelicans.
The takeaway
This close victory for the Orlando Magic demonstrates the potential of their young roster, led by standout rookie Paolo Banchero. The Pelicans will look to rebound from this narrow loss as they continue their quest to return to the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference.
