CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray dominate in Pelicans' win over Wizards

In Orlando, Florida, the Utah Jazz secured a decisive victory over the Orlando Magic with a score of 105-92 on January 5, 2025. Brice Sensabaugh led the Jazz with an impressive performance, scoring 27 points, while Collin Sexton contributed 20 points and Walker Kessler tallied 17 rebounds in a crucial win. Sensabaugh, coming off a career-high game, showcased his shooting prowess, making 11 of 19 attempts from the field, including 5 of 6 from beyond the arc. The Jazz played without several key starters, including Lauri Markkanen and John Collins, who did not participate due to prior engagements, yet managed to outlast the Magic with bench strength and effective teamwork. The Magic struggled significantly, shooting just 36% overall and hitting only 14 of 47 attempts from three-point range. Jett Howard led Orlando with a career-high of 21 points, while Wendell Carter Jr. added 15 points. However, the team was further challenged by the absence of several key players, namely Jalen Suggs, Paolo Banchero, and Franz Wagner, all sidelined due to injury. This situation limited the team's scoring options and ability to mount a competitive challenge against the Jazz. Key moments in the game included Sensabaugh's timely contributions early in the fourth quarter, where he scored multiple three-pointers to extend the lead significantly. The Jazz's victory not only marked their second consecutive win in a span of 24 hours but also highlighted their resilience, particularly given the absence of multiple starting players and the difficulties they had faced in previous games this season. This victory improved the Jazz’s record to 6-4 against Eastern Conference teams, whereas their struggles against Western teams continued with a 3-21 record. The Jazz's triumph underscores the depth of their roster and their ability to perform under pressure, especially in challenging circumstances. The next challenge for the Jazz is set against the Atlanta Hawks at home, while the Magic will look to rebound against the New York Knicks.