Sixers grind out 102-94 win over the Orlando Magic, snap two-game skid

The Sixers found a way to grind out a 102-94 win over the Orlando Magic tonight in South Philly, snapping a two-game losing streak and splitting their back-to-back set with the Magic.

It wasn’t pretty—far from it—but a win is a win, especially for a team desperate to find any semblance of momentum this season. In a game where both teams shot horrendously from three (Sixers: 7-26, 26%; Magic: 13-46, 28%), the Sixers leaned on their defense and just enough timely offense to hold off a late Magic push.

Good Performances:

Paul George

Podcast Paul? Philly P? How about Point Guard Paul George? PG-PG. It has a ring to it. With 21 points and 9 assists tonight, Paul George did a little bit of everything.

PG: 21 PTS | 9 AST | 4 REB

PG8⃣ took care of business.

21 PTS | 9 AST | 4 REB @PALottery pic.twitter.com/F5WK0nTdqP

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) December 7, 2024

Paul George might not be at full strength right now, but there are still moments where he shows why he’s one of the smoothest operators in the game. Watching him slowly shoulder off defenders for tough step-back jumpers or bully his way into the lane for finishes—or sneaky dishes—is a reminder of his brilliance.

When George gets into the paint, it’s like watching a chess master at work. The attention he commands collapses defenses, and his ability to control the tempo allows him to set up teammates with wide-open looks, either at the rim or beyond the arc. It’s the kind of precision that makes opposing teams hesitate to overcommit, knowing he can make them pay in multiple ways.

🎱 ➡️ 2️⃣8️⃣ pic.twitter.com/oGFg7K8tjE

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) December 7, 2024

Of course, with George, you take the breathtaking plays with the occasional head-scratchers. Tonight, he delivered one of those classic “What were you thinking?” moments, tossing a fast-break pass directly to Franz Wagner like he was trying to pad the Magic forward’s stats.

And then there’s the age—and the knee brace. Both showed their presence on a blown dunk attempt that was, frankly, tough to watch. The explosiveness that once defined George’s game isn’t what it used to be, and moments like this are sobering reminders of the toll injuries have taken this season.

George is walking a fine line between preserving his body and delivering the kind of high-level play his team needs. There are going to be clunky turnovers and missed highlight opportunities, but those are just part of the package. When he’s on, his ability to create and control the game is still elite.

KJ Martin Extended Run

KJ Martin capitalized on extended playing time due to Caleb Martin’s early exit, delivering an impressive performance. In 32 minutes, he scored 20 points on 9-of-10 shooting, including a three-pointer—a notable development given his previous struggles from beyond the arc.

Opponents have been daring him to shoot from distance; if he continues to convert, defenses will be forced to adjust, opening lanes for his explosive dunks and backdoor cuts.

Defensively, Martin showcased his athleticism with high-leaping blocks and the versatility to guard multiple positions. His energy and impact on both ends make a compelling case for consistent minutes, even when Caleb Martin returns.

If Caleb continues to struggle with his shot, Coach Nick Nurse should consider allocating more time to KJ, who was initially viewed as trade bait but proved his value tonight.

Martin was kept around as a salary filler trade bait contract in the offseason, but earned every penny tonight.  Also – get this kid in the dunk contest please.

got a present from KMart! 🎁 pic.twitter.com/PvI7iFWZF7

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) December 7, 2024

Bad Performances

No Magic from Maxey Against the Magic

Tyrese Maxey has been electric for the Sixers this season, but the last two games against the Orlando Magic? Let’s just say the spark wasn’t there. Maxey was held to 16 points tonight, continuing his icy stretch from beyond the arc—1-for-7 tonight, 0-for-7 in the previous game. That’s a combined 1-for-14 over two games, which, let’s be honest, is brutal for a player who’s been a key offensive engine.

Look, every shooter goes through slumps, and Maxey is no exception. But when he’s cold, it can get ugly. We’re talking early shot clock threes that clang off the rim, a few possessions of disorganized iso-ball, and stretches where the offense feels stuck in neutral. Maxey is at his best when he’s playing with pace, attacking the rim, and facilitating for others.

When the shots aren’t falling, the Sixers need him to keep the ball moving. Right now, he’s forcing things a bit too much, which can throw the whole team out of sync.

Even on off nights, Maxey’s explosiveness can’t be denied. He’s still barreling into the lane and blowing past defenders like it’s nothing. That’s a skill you can’t teach and a reason why Sixers fans shouldn’t panic about this slump. The long-range shooting will come back—bad streaks happen to everyone, and Maxey has shown time and again that he can shoot his way out of funks.

Yes, these last two games have been rough, but let’s not forget who we’re talking about here. Maxey is a proven bucket-getter. Sure, “ugly shots” stand out when they’re not falling, but the second he makes four in a row? Everyone forgets the slump ever happened.

The Sixers need Maxey to get back on track as they try to climb out of their early-season hole, and there’s no doubt he will. The heater is coming. Just be patient.

Other Notes:

• The Sixers overcame a slow start, trailing by two after the first quarter.

• A pivotal 12-2 run to close the third quarter extended their lead to 71-59.

• I can’t tell if I hate Andre Drummond or not.  One night I’m calling for him to lose all his playing time to a 2nd round rookie, and the next night he helps solves the rebounding woes against the Magic. 

• Kelly Oubre pulled down 10 boards tonight to go along with 13 points.  He has turned in three straight excellent games.

• Kyle Lowry played 11 minutes tonight and scored 0 points.  He has not scored in the last 3 games he’s played.  He has not hit a 3 since November 10th. 

• Team Defense: Forced 21 turnovers and held Orlando to 28.3% shooting from beyond the arc.

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Mandatory Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images