Magic’s Paolo Banchero already making fans money vs. Pistons

The Orlando Magic found themselves entering Wednesday night’s Game 5 against the Detroit Pistons in a closeout situation. But it’s not Orlando on the verge of going home, but Detroit instead.

The Pistons came out hot and played like their backs were against the wall, at one point building a double-digit lead. But Magic star Paolo Banchero brought his A-game as well.

So much so that he already cashed for sports bettors in the first half.

Banchero’s point total over-under was slated at 21.5 for Game 5, per the Action Network. The former Kansas Jayhawk dropped 22 points in the first half alone. That allowed the Magic to stay close, trailing 66-60 at the break.

Banchero’s offensive presence is needed. Orlando is without Franz Wagner, who arguably is its best all-around player. Wagner suffered a right calf injury late in Monday’s Game 4 win at home. He was questionable to suit up, but with the Magic holding a 3-1 series lead, head coach Jamahl Mosley opted to be cautious with his star big man.

As the third quarter progressed, though, Banchero’s efficiency dipped as the Pistons extended their lead. Desmond Bane is the only other starter with more than seven points (13 on 5-for-11 shooting). Anthony Black has 16 points off the bench as of the end of the third quarter.

The Magic trail by 11 with the final quarter remaining. Can Orlando pull off the comeback and send the top-seeded Pistons out early? If so, Banchero will likely need to carry the Magic to the win.

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