The Orlando Magic notched their first victory at home after beating the Milwaukee Bucks, 107-99, at Kia Center in the NBA Cup on Friday. The Magic are on a three-game winning streak, improving to 5-7, while the Bucks fell to 1-12.
Jalen Suggs returned to action after missing eight games due to a knee injury. He contributed three points, two rebounds, and three assists in 21 minutes off the bench.
While he struggled from the field, shooting just 1-of-8, including 1-of-6 from long range, coach Sean Sweeney recognized the overall impact of the sixth-year guard, as reported by Sentinel Sports' Jason Beede.
“(We) talked a little bit before the game about how, with certain guys when they come back from back injury, they're trying to manage it, making it a 40-minute game instead of a 48-minute game. But his impact was felt immediately,” said Sweeney.
“Although he didn't have a great shooting night, he impacts the game in so many different areas: On the basketball with his point-of-attack defense, his ability to penetrate and make the right play. In limited minutes, he had three assists, and he had a number of potential assists. So, (it was) great to have him back out there and excited for him to keep ramping up.”
Article Continues Below#Magic coach Sean Sweeney said they were just trying to manage the game for Jalen Suggs when I asked what went into him coming off the bench in his first game back from injury.
“But his impact was felt immediately and … he impacts the game in so many different areas…”
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— Jason Beede (@therealBeede) November 14, 2026
The 25-year-old Suggs has struggled to stay healthy. He has played at least 60 games only once since the Magic drafted him with the No. 5 pick in 2021.
When he is on the floor, he gives Orlando a two-way weapon with his energy and doggedness. While Anthony Black has filled in well, the Magic are better with Suggs in the lineup.
Suggs and the Magic will have a two-day break before hosting the Boston Celtics on Monday.