Warriors Outpace Magic 120-97: Curry Leads Charge as Injuries Test Orlando

Warriors Bounce Back, Magic Falter Amid Injuries

On December 22, 2025, the Golden State Warriors delivered a convincing 120-97 win over the Orlando Magic at Chase Center. Coming off a dramatic victory over the Suns, the Warriors showed no signs of fatigue, fueled by Stephen Curry’s relentless shooting and a balanced team effort. Orlando, meanwhile, entered the contest already battered, missing defensive standouts Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner, among others. Their absence was felt from tip-off.

Stephen Curry’s Brilliance Shines

Curry, ever the heart of Golden State’s offense, led the charge with a masterclass in scoring and leadership. From the opening quarter, he set the tone—hitting deep threes, orchestrating the offense, and rallying his teammates during key stretches. The Warriors built momentum early, outscoring the Magic in the second and fourth quarters, and never looked back. By the final buzzer, Curry’s stat line reflected his impact: 34 points, 9 assists, 3 steals, and 7 three-pointers. He also achieved a career milestone, passing Vince Carter for 22nd on the NBA’s all-time scoring list (Yahoo Sports).

Magic’s Young Core Fights On, But Depth Proves Costly

The Magic started strong, leading 30-26 after the first quarter, with Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane showing flashes of brilliance. Banchero, still returning to form after a groin injury, contributed across the board, nearly posting another triple-double after his recent standout performances against Denver and Utah. Bane, fresh off a game-winning layup in Utah, was aggressive but found fewer openings against Golden State’s defense.

Anthony Black, the rookie, continued to impress, putting up 21 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals. Yet, without Suggs and Franz Wagner, Orlando’s defense struggled to contain the Warriors’ perimeter shooting. The Magic limited Golden State to 13 made threes in their previous meeting, but this time, Curry and company found their rhythm, converting at a higher clip and exploiting mismatches throughout the night (NBA.com Magic).

Key Runs and Turning Points

Momentum shifted sharply in the third and fourth quarters. After a tight first half, the Warriors used a 24-10 run spanning late third into early fourth to break open the game. Draymond Green anchored the defense, while Jimmy Butler III added secondary scoring (33 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals), complementing Curry’s fireworks. By the fourth, the Magic’s offense sputtered under the Warriors’ pressure, and Orlando managed just 40 points in the second half.

Injuries and Lineup Changes: Impact Felt on Both Sides

The Magic played without Suggs (hip), Franz Wagner (ankle), Moe Wagner (knee), and Colin Castleton (thumb), while Tristan da Silva was questionable. The Warriors were missing Seth Curry (glute) and Al Horford (sciatica), but their depth proved more resilient. Orlando’s undermanned squad, especially in the backcourt, struggled to match Golden State’s pace and defensive intensity (NBA.com Magic).

Coaches Jamahl Mosley and Steve Kerr both emphasized resilience before the game. Mosley praised Bane and rookie Noah Penda for stepping up, but acknowledged the challenge of facing Curry without his best defenders. Kerr, reflecting on Curry’s growth, spoke of the “beauty in the journey”—a sentiment that resonated as the Warriors continue to find ways to win even when not at full strength (VAVEL).

What This Means Going Forward

This win nudged the Warriors to 15-15 on the season, an encouraging sign after recent close losses. The Magic, now 16-13, face a tough stretch as their West Coast trip continues. The loss highlighted their need for defensive reinforcements and more consistent scoring from the supporting cast. Both teams have proven they can compete with top-tier opponents, but the road ahead will test their depth and adaptability.

• Stephen Curry: 34 points, 9 assists, 3 steals, 7 threes; passes Vince Carter for 22nd all-time scoring
• Jimmy Butler III: 33 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals
• Desmond Bane: 20 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals
• Anthony Black: 21 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals
• Warriors record improves to 15-15; Magic fall to 16-13

Next up, the Magic continue their West Coast swing, hoping to get healthier and regain defensive form. The Warriors, meanwhile, look to build on their momentum with Curry and Butler in peak form.

This matchup underscored the power of experience and depth in the NBA. While Orlando’s young core flashes promise, the Warriors’ veteran leadership, especially from Curry, remains a difference-maker. As injuries test rosters across the league, teams that adapt quickly and lean on proven stars will shape the playoff race.