Magic vs Cavaliers: Cavs 16-Game Run Halted by Orlando
For weeks, the Cleveland Cavaliers had been untouchable, stacking up win after win to reach a franchise-best 16-game streak. But all good things must come to an end, and on Sunday, the Magic vs Cavaliers showdown at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse delivered just that. In a thrilling battle, the Magic edged out the Cavs 108-103, silencing the home crowd and proving they belong in the conversation of top Eastern Conference teams.
The Cavaliers hadn’t lost since February 4th, establishing themselves as the team to beat. Night after night, they found ways to close out games, their chemistry and defense carrying them to victory. But against an Orlando team that played with grit, confidence, and elite defensive execution, Cleveland simply couldn’t finish the job in crunch time.
Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner Deliver When It Counts
The Magic didn’t just win this game—they earned it. Paolo Banchero, despite a tough shooting night (just 6-of-22 from the field), led the charge with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. He showed poise beyond his years, stepping up when his team needed him the most.
Franz Wagner was right there with him, dropping 22 points and making key plays down the stretch. Wendell Carter Jr. also played a crucial role, finishing with 16 points and 14 rebounds, providing the physicality and rebounding that Orlando needed to match Cleveland’s size.
Source: Magic end Cavaliers’ franchise-best win streak at 16 games
Fourth-Quarter Collapse: Cleveland’s Perfect Record Shattered
Up by one heading into the fourth quarter, the Cavaliers had every reason to feel confident. They had won 48 straight games when leading after three quarters. But this time, the Magic weren’t backing down.
With the game on the line, Cleveland missed multiple golden opportunities. Banchero’s clutch 16-foot jumper put Orlando ahead 104-103. On the next possession, Cleveland’s De’Andre Hunter launched a three-pointer—his shot sailed wide. Orlando capitalized as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope calmly drained two free throws, extending the lead to three.
Still, Cleveland had one last shot. Max Strus pulled up for a three to tie it—miss. Then came Donovan Mitchell’s turn, but the All-Star couldn’t find the bottom of the net on two more long-range attempts. The Cavs’ hopes faded as Orlando’s defense held firm, sealing the game with a defensive stand that spoke volumes about their potential.
Donovan Mitchell Returns, But Struggles in the Clutch
After missing two games with a sore groin, Donovan Mitchell returned and led the Cavaliers with 23 points. But when it mattered most, he couldn’t deliver. His three late-game misses, coupled with Cleveland’s overall struggles in the final minute, doomed the team’s chances of pushing their streak to 17.
Jarrett Allen put up a solid 20 points and 12 rebounds, continuing his strong play, but his impact wasn’t enough to make up for the absence of Evan Mobley. The All-Star forward was sidelined with a bruised foot, and his defensive presence was sorely missed as Orlando found ways to attack the paint.
Cleveland’s newest addition, De’Andre Hunter, tasted defeat for the first time in a Cavs uniform after the team had won all 13 games he had played in since the trade deadline. His presence has been a major boost, but even he couldn’t help them close this one out.
A Wake-Up Call or Just a Bump in the Road
Losing after such a long streak stings, but Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson isn’t dwelling on it. Instead, he sees it as a reality check. “First of all, you’ve gotta credit [Orlando],” he admitted. “Top-three defense, that’s what they do. They’re an excellent defensive team.”
The loss, however, serves as a reminder that no streak lasts forever. As Atkinson put it, “I think sometimes it’s like, ‘Oh, okay, this league is—it’s a tough league.’ A lot of great teams out there. And I think this will help us on this trip just be ready to go out there and play better.”
The Cavaliers still sit at the top of the Eastern Conference, and this loss doesn’t erase what they’ve accomplished. But it does highlight areas where they need to improve, especially in late-game execution. With the playoffs approaching, learning from this game could be just as important as any win.
For Orlando, this was more than just another victory. It was a statement. A message that they are on the rise, capable of taking down the best, and ready to make some noise come playoff time.
Cleveland’s historic streak is over, but both teams walk away from this game knowing that the real battles are yet to come.
Read More: Top Seeds Revealed: UCLA and USC No. 1 in March Madness