Jamal Mosley describes adjustments without Paolo Banchero in Nets win

The The Orlando Magic secured their third straight win on Friday nightbeating the Brooklyn Nets 105–98 in their second game NBA Cup matchup. The victory came despite the absence of a star Paolo Bancheroencouraging the head coach Jamahl Mosley yes outline offensive adjustments needed for Orlando’s offense to work.

Banchero was sent off just before the competition after undergoing an MRI on Thursday that revealed a strained left groin. The 23-year-old has been the centerpiece of Orlando’s offensive structure this season, averaging 21.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting 46.1 percent from the field in 12 games. His ability to pressure the rim also resulted in a career-high 9.3 free throw attempts per game.

Mosley explained that without Buncher’s downhill strength and ability to draw multiple defenders, the Magic had to change their approach.

“I think you’ve just got to keep finding ways — if you draw two, you’ve got to find the open man,” Mosley said. “As the defense breaks down, you’re not trying to rally to get fouls, you’ve got to come in aggressively, physically. If they whistle, if they don’t, you’ve got to keep making the right play and finish whether you get contact or not.”

Franz WagnerTristan da Silva helps calm the Magic’s offense without Paolo Banchero

Franz Wagner took on an increased load in Buncher’s absence, leading the Magic with 25 points, six rebounds and five assists while shooting 7-for-17 from the field and 8-for-10 from the line over 37 minutes. His shooting late in the fourth quarter helped seal the win, part of a +15 performance that reflected his two-way impact.

Tristan da Silva also provided another outstanding outinghe finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and one assist while hitting five of his nine attempts from three. The sophomore forward continued to provide efficient scoring and timely rebounding throughout his 32 minutes, tying Wagner at +15.

The Magic’s offensive execution was inconsistent at times, especially in stretches where Brooklyn’s physicality forced Orlando into turnovers. However, the group rebounded with strong late-game defense, holding the Nets to 16 points in the final period to close out the victory.

With the win, Orlando improved to 7–6, climbing above .500 for the first time since the season opener. The Magic now head to Houston for a short road trip to face the Rockets (8-3) on Sunday at 7pm ET. The team then returns to the Kia Center for a three-game homestand starting Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors (8–6), while they await further clarification on Buncher’s recovery timeline.