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Paolo Banchero scores 36 points to defeat the Lakers

Paolo Banchero scores 36 points and Wendell Carter Jr. hits the game-winning basket in the final seconds to lead the Orlando Magic past the Los Angeles Lakers in a tight contest.
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Paolo Banchero scores 36 points to defeat the Lakers

Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) moves the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Photo Credit : © Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Orlando Magic concluded their West Coast road trip with a quality 110-109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night. Paolo Banchero shined with 36 points, while Wendell Carter Jr. scored the decisive basket with 6.7 seconds remaining in the game.

A thrilling finish at Crypto.com Arena

The final minutes provided intense entertainment for the fans in attendance. Orlando led by five points with 5 and a half minutes remaining, but Rui Hachimura tied the game with a crucial 3-pointer at 2 minutes 14 seconds for Los Angeles. Desmond Bane responded with a decisive 3-pointer with 34.6 seconds left on the clock, before Luka Doncic found LeBron James under the basket for a dunk that gave the Lakers back the lead.

The outcome was decided on Orlando’s final possession. Carter Jr. capitalized on his team’s second offensive rebound to score the game-winning basket. LeBron James had an opportunity to tie with an off-balance 3-point attempt, but his shot missed the mark.

LIRE AUSSI

Remarkable individual performances on both sides

In addition to Banchero’s 36 points, the Magic could count on 22 points from Desmond Bane and 20 points and 12 rebounds from Carter Jr. This victory allows Orlando to win six of their last eight games and move within half a game of sixth place in the Eastern Conference.

For the Lakers, Luka Doncic compiled 22 points and 15 assists, while LeBron James and Deandre Ayton each scored 21 points. Austin Reaves added 18 points, all scored in the second half. This loss is part of a disappointing stretch for Los Angeles, which has a record of 4 wins and 4 losses during this home stand around the All-Star Break.

The Lakers have now lost four of their last six games and have dropped to sixth place in the Western Conference, regularly failing against playoff-level teams. The Magic will continue their season by hosting Houston on Thursday, while Los Angeles will travel to Phoenix.

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Nicolas Flamecourt
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
Paolo Banchero scores 36 points to defeat the Lakers