Wagner warns Detroit: "We got good players" ready to counter the Pistons' pressure and win. Keys include ball control and dominating the paint.
Can the Orlando Magic go up 2-0? Franz Wagner details the team's mindset heading into a hostile Game 2 environment and how Orlando plans to withstand the Detroit Pistons' pressure.
Franz Wagner: On withstanding Detroit's early pressure in Game 2:
"I think we can't have the mentality of trying to match what they're doing—just play our game, probably physical, and try to come out here with a win."
On why the starting lineup has found rhythm so quickly:
"I think we just got really good players in that lineup. Whatever the circumstance might be, I think that we got players that are willing to play with each other and, like I said, they're really talented."
On the keys to winning the points in the paint battle:
"In the half court, just packing the paint—it's pretty simple. Then, having pressure on the ball makes it harder to get in there as the ball handler. Something we can do better is take care of the ball; I think that's how they generate a lot of points in the paint throughout the season."
On the importance of protecting possessions in a physical game:
"It's really important. With turnovers, one: you don't get a shot up. Two: usually they get a really good look. They got a bunch of steals the other night. If you turn it over, I think it's always better to have it be a dead ball, but just be ready for how they're guarding. They're really good at their style of defense, and I think that's a big reason for why they played the regular season that they did."
On feeding off the defensive energy of the guards:
"Big time. Our guards are our first line of defense a lot of times, so they set the tone. I really believe we got guards that can do some stuff defensively that not a lot of teams have—not just making plays on the ball, but also off the ball."
Join the Community
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
Be sure to subscribe to the podcast
For additional coverage, subscribe to our Full Court Magic Podcast!
Bane anticipates a fiercely physical Game 2 as the Pistons fight back. He highlights Suggs' toughness and the team's readiness for Detroit's desperate response.