Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) celebrates in front of Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond (1) after making a 3-pointer during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Clippers top Magic, Lue earns 200th win

Last night the LA Clippers extended their winning streak against the Orlando Magic. The two teams were neck in neck in the first half. However, the Clippers made crucial shots and played man-on-man defense that allowed them to push through and obtain a nine-point victory. The final score was 111 – 102.

Recently, the Clippers have had moments in games where they tend to rally at the last minute. Tuesday night, LA came back from a 35-point deficit in their intense match-up with the Washington Wizards. The final score was 116-115. This comeback was one of the second most significant comebacks in NBA history. 

Turning Points

Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) celebrates in front of Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond (1) after making a 3-pointer during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

The Clippers were at a 14-point deficit against the Magic but did not rally last minute like the night prior. The Clippers’ main error in the first half was the number of fouls they made against the Magic. In the first half, the Clippers provided the Magic with several free-throw opportunities. The Magic had 12 free throw opportunities by halftime, while LA had none. The excessive free throws in the first quarter were a significant factor in the Magic’s offense.

However, the Clippers regained power offensively in the second quarter by making their three-pointers. Nicolas Batum was on a hot shooting streak within that second half, and made four triples within critical moments. Another major factor of LA’s turning point in the second half was their effort on defense, where they became more aggressive regarding attacking the paint and basket.

This victory was a major career milestone for Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue. He accredits this success to the team “Like I said, teams are going to play and scrap for you and compete every single night. So, I’ve just been blessed to have that.” 

Up Next for Clippers and Magic

The Clippers will continue to play on the road and play the Miami Heat tonight at 8 p.m.

The Orlando Magic will play the Detroit Pistons at home tomorrow at 7 p.m.

About Cristina Santiago

Cristina Santiago is a senior at the University of Florida studying journalism with a concentration in sports and media.

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