The player who caught Jamal Mosley’s attention in the win over the Heat

As it is The Orlando Magic opened the 2025-26 season with a 125-121 win over the Miami Heat. on Tuesday night, the head coach Jamahl Mosley made sure to single out one standout player in the win — second-year forward Tristan da Silva.

Da Silva, who had an impressive summer with the German national team, provided a spark off the bench on his season debut. The 24-year-old finished with 16 points and a rebound in 18 minutes, shooting 5-for-8 from the field, 3-for-5 from beyond the arc and 3-for-4 from the free throw line. His efficient scoring and timely plays earned him a plus/minus rating of +11, among the best on the team.

Mosley praised that Silva’s confidence and composure, pointing to his offseason experience as a catalyst for his early success.

“Just what we’ve needed from him all year – to be able to come in (and) make timely hits, playing with a high level of confidence,” Mosley said. “I think playing with the national team this summer has done wonders for him to know what we need from him to not be afraid when he gets on the floor and plays with that kind of swagger.”

Da Silva spent the summer competing with The German national team at FIBA ​​Eurobasket 2025 tournament, where Germany won the gold medal along with Magic teammate Franz Wagner. The international experience, Mosley said, helped Da Silva further understand how to contribute to a team of talented players and play with more assertiveness.

The growth of Tristan Da Silva gives the Magic valuable depth and versatility entering the new season

During his rookie season, da Silva averaged 7.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 41.2% from the field and 33.5% from three in 22 minutes in 74 appearances. His continued improvement and willingness to play within Orlando’s system have made him a reliable rotation player heading into year two.

With the Magic entering the season healthier and deeper than in previous years, Silva’s development gives Mosley another versatile option on the wing. His perimeter shooting and ability to space the floor complement a team frontcourt led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, giving Orlando the flexibility to maintain an offensive rhythm even when its stars are resting.

Da Silva’s calm approach and efficiency reflect the qualities Mosley highlighted throughout the roster — confidence, poise and execution. For a Magic team aiming to build on last season’s 41-41 record, the contributions of a player like da Silva could be key to their rise further up the Eastern Conference standings.

The The Magic will look to continue their strong start to the season when they host the Atlanta Hawks (0-1) on Friday night at 7:00 PM ET to continue their three-game homestand.