So many moments led to Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s game-tying free throw rimming out for the Pelicans to ensure an Orlando Magic win on Thursday night. All of the trades, roster moves, hope, and heartbreak led to this result. The Magic are now 2-1 with this new roster and are riding the double-edged sword of winning with a group of young, promising players in a season that may already be lost.
Both the Magic and Pelicans took the floor shorthanded beyond belief on Thursday, with the Pelicans’ All-Stars Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram both late scratches, in addition to the host of familiar injuries plaguing the Magic.