The Orlando Magic experienced the most significant defeat in their franchise history on Sunday, suffering a crushing 52-point loss to the Toronto Raptors with a final score of 139-87. This dominant performance by the Raptors included an astonishing 31 consecutive points in the first half alone, followed by another 17-0 scoring run spanning the third and fourth quarters. This humiliating defeat surpassed the Magic’s previous record for the largest margin of loss, which was 47 points against the Chicago Bulls in 2017.
Despite this setback, the Magic holds an impressive 39-35 record for the season, placing them eighth in the Eastern Conference, and they have already secured a spot in the post-season play-in tournament. The Toronto Raptors, currently fifth in the East with a 42-32 record, showcased their strength in this lopsided victory.
In other NBA action on Sunday, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 30 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 110-100 win over the New York Knicks. Meanwhile, French international Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs has reportedly emerged as a leading MVP candidate for the season.
As the final weeks of the tournament unfold, leading up to the regular season’s last day on April 13, only a handful of teams have secured their playoff spots. These include the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference, and the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference.