ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — In a spectacular display of skill and precision, Stephen Curry scored a season-high 56 points, leading the Golden State Warriors to a thrilling 121-115 victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. Curry's performance featured an impressive 12 three-pointers, allowing him to outscore the entire Magic team during the third quarter.
Displaying his remarkable shooting ability, Curry went 12-for-19 from beyond the arc, marking his NBA-record 26th career game with 10 or more three-pointers. Overall, he shot 16-for-25 from the field and converted all 12 of his free throw attempts. This victory also marked the Warriors' fifth consecutive win, solidifying their momentum as they aim for a playoff spot.
During the pivotal third quarter, Curry exploded for 22 points, helping the Warriors turn a daunting 14-point deficit into a five-point lead. The Orlando Magic could only manage 21 points in the same period, showcasing Curry's ability to take control of the game when it mattered most.
While Curry led the charge, several other players contributed significantly to the Warriors' success. Quinten Post came off the bench to score 18 points and grab five rebounds, including a remarkable stretch where he scored 10 consecutive points for Golden State in the second period. Draymond Green also made his presence felt, contributing 12 points and pulling down 10 rebounds.
This victory improved the Warriors' record to seven wins in eight games since acquiring Jimmy Butler in a trade on February 6. Although Butler had a quieter night with just five points on 1-of-7 shooting, he managed to dish out seven assists in 32 minutes of play, showing his versatility and importance to the team.
On the opposing side, Paolo Banchero led the Magic with a remarkable 41 points, while Franz Wagner added 27 points to keep Orlando competitive. Despite their efforts, the Magic fell short as the Warriors' defense tightened in crucial moments.
In a critical stretch of the fourth quarter, the Warriors showcased their defensive prowess by holding the Magic scoreless for the first 3:08. This crucial defensive stand allowed Golden State to extend their lead from five to twelve points, further securing their victory.
With every game, Stephen Curry continues to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, and his latest performance was a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination. Fans can look forward to more thrilling moments as the Warriors push towards the postseason.
