Penny Hardaway feat Paolo Banchera lost in loss to Cavs

Paolo Banchero had an impressive performance that was repeated Penny Hardaway go to waste in orlando Magic’s loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday evening.

Banchero is in his fourth NBA season with the Magic. He shined as one of the best players at his position, showing off his skills as an aggressive perimeter shooter and active rebounder.

In 40 minutes of action, Banchero filled out the statistical sheet in the duel between Orlando and Cleveland. He finished with 37 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. He shot 13 of 21 from the field, including 2 of 5 from beyond the arc and 9 of 13 from the free throw line. His effort joined Dwight Howard and Hardaway in franchise history for third 35-point games, via StatMuse.

Paolo Banchero vs. Cleveland:

37 PTS
10 REB

Ties Dwight and Penny for third 35 PT games in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/PIHFJFIek6

— StatMuse (@statmuse) January 27, 2026

According to Paolo Banchero, the Magic played against the Cavaliers

Paolo Banchero’s effort is a great sign for the Magic despite the loss to the Cavaliers. However, he will need his teammates to step up in scoring more consistently.

Orlando started well, leading 32-22 after the first quarter. However, Cleveland took complete control and never looked back, outscoring the Magic 92-66 over the final three periods of regulation.

Three players scored in double figures for Orlando in the loss, including Buncher. Desmond Bain had 19 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block. He shot 7-of-17 overall, including 3-of-7 from downtown and 2-of-2 from the charity stripe. Anthony Black was next with 14 points and five assists, while Wendell Carter Jr. had nine points and seven rebounds.

Orlando fell to a 23-22 record on the season, holding onto ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings. They are 0.5 games above the Chicago Bulls and 1.5 games above the Atlanta Hawks, while trailing the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers by one game.

Coming off a four-game losing streak, the Magic will look to get back on track in their next game. They are on the road when they face the Heat on January 28th at 7:30pm ET.