Franz Wagner’s Hollywood Ending Overcomes LeBron, AD in Magic’s Win Over Lakers

It was a script made for Hollywood.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis were coming off their best finishes, scoring the final 23 points of the Los Angeles Lakers’ fourth quarter. But when the Hall of Famers missed four of their last six free throws, they left the door open for another star.

Enter Franz Wagner, whose step-back three-pointer hit nothing but nylon with 2.5 seconds left to give the Orlando Magic their best win of the season, 119-118.

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) celebrates after making a 3-pointer with 2.5 seconds left

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) celebrates after making a 3-pointer with 2.5 seconds left in the game to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The win capped a 2-1 road trip for the Magic, who improved to 10-7. The Lakers suffered their first loss at Crypto.com Arena.

Wagner scored 15 points in the final quarter and finished with a season-high 37 to go with six rebounds, 11 assists and four steals.

Jalen Suggs added 22 points with five threes. Moe Wagner added a season-high 19 off the bench.

The Magic return home for a one-off home game Saturday night against the Detroit Pistons. Tip is 7:00 PM ET.

Follow ‘Orlando Magic on SI‘ on Facebook and like our page. Follow Magic beat reporter Mason Williams on Twitter/X @mvsonwilliams. Bookmark ours too website so you never miss a story.