Walter hits for 3 with 0.5 seconds left as Raptors tip slumping Magic 114-113

By Canadian Press on March 4, 2025.

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Ja’Kobe Walter swished a contested 3-pointer with 0.5 seconds remaining and the Toronto Raptors edged the Orlando Magic 114-113 on Tuesday night after blowing a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter.

Paolo Banchero rallied the Magic, scoring 22 of his 41 points in the final period on 8-for-8 shooting. He made two free throws with five seconds left to give Orlando a 113-111 lead.

Banchero, who finished with eight rebounds, eight assists and four steals, also scored 41 in a loss to Golden State last Thursday. The Magic have dropped four straight and five of six — all at home.

Walter, a rookie from Baylor, had 17 points for the Raptors, who improved to 7-23 on the road. They won 104-102 at Orlando on Sunday night.

RJ Barrett scored 21 points and added eight rebounds and nine assists for the visitors, who beat the Magic 104-102 on Sunday. Jakob Poeltl, Scottie Barnes and Walter all scored 17 points for the Raptors.

Raptors starting guard Gradey Dick sat out after getting shaken up in a collision Sunday night. Dick, who averages 14.4 points per game, exited after being struck in the face by the back of Cole Anthony’s head during a fall late in the first half.

UP NEXT

Raptors: Host the Utah Jazz on Friday.

Magic: Host the Chicago Bulls on Thursday.

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The Associated Press