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German rookie with brilliant performance off the bench
After Banchero’s loss: Da Silva seizes his chance in the Magic jersey
In the shadow of injured star player Paolo Banchero, another Orlando Magic player is flourishing: rookie Tristan da Silva. He got the opportunity to prove himself in the first game after the All-Star was out and took advantage of his chance straight away.
Given the Magic’s superstar’s injury, head coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized the opportunity for other players to prove themselves: “It’s tough for Paolo, but it provides an opportunity for others to rise to the challenge,” Mosley said. The German managed to do this promptly.
In just 20 minutes of action in the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, which Orlando lost 109:120, da Silva contributed a strong 17 points and five rebounds. The 23-year-old, who was selected 18th overall in the draft, hit 6 of his 8 attempts from the field.
Together with Franz Wagner, da Silva was his team’s second best scorer. After just five minutes of playing time in his debut against Miami, where he didn’t score any points, the German forward was now able to improve significantly. With an excellent strike rate (75%), including all three three-pointers, da Silva ensured that he may get more playing time in the future.
Wagner brothers in the starting lineup
The Wagner brothers played together in the starting lineup in this game, as Moritz Wagner replaced Banchero. Franz Wagner also scored 17 points, while Moritz contributed 14 points. However, the Magic had to bow to the undefeated Cavaliers, who are the best team in the East with a record of 6-0.
