Orlando Magic's Jalen Suggs Details Dominant 132-116 Win: 'We Hit All Our Keys'

Jalen Suggs is seeking a healthy and successful 2026-27 season.

Full-Court Magic host Don Strouble had an interesting excerpt about Jalen Suggs:

“The Orlando Magic are in this unique position where they do not have a true floor general in either Jalen Suggs or Desmond Bane. Last year Jalen had a career-high in assists even though his usage rate was lower than the other three key guys—Paolo, Franz, and Desmond.

So we know that he can step into a point guard role, but I think first and foremost, he is a defensive guard that can terrorize teams in the half court and give you problems on the ball. By acquiring Desmond Bane, they took some of the offensive pressure off Jalen. What I would tell him is: when you have the ball in your hand, make the right choice. Don't try to be too flashy, don't try to be something you're not, and really lean into your strengths on the defensive end and continue to be that anchor for this group moving forward.”

Jalen Suggs displayed that growth immediately in the 132-116 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Suggs scored nine points in just 13 minutes while shooting 3-4 from the field. He also had five rebounds and two assists.

Following the win, Suggs met with the media to discuss what went right.

Building a big lead over the first three quarters: Suggs praised the team’s pace, ball movement and quick decision-making, both in transition and in the half court. He highlighted the players’ movement around screens, willingness to attack and ability to create open shots. Suggs also noted that the bench maintained the same level of play as the starters, praising the team’s overall performance.

Making his preseason debut alongside the starting unit: Suggs said he was eager to return to the court after sitting out the first two preseason games. He felt the game came naturally, crediting the coaching staff’s preparation and emphasizing that his focus was on executing the game plan. Suggs added that his role felt straightforward and that he was pleased with his performance.

What is clicking within the offense: Suggs pointed to the team’s ball and player movement, pace, screening action and confidence in taking open shots. He credited the coaching staff with implementing the system and said the players have embraced the approach. Suggs added that he focused on executing his role and applying what he has learned from the coaching staff over the past six weeks.

Franz Wagner’s playmaking and his own three-point shooting: Suggs praised Wagner’s basketball IQ, ballhandling and ability to make the right play, whether scoring himself or creating opportunities for teammates. He highlighted Wagner’s ability to set up plays that lead to assists or secondary assists and said playing alongside him is enjoyable. Regarding his own shooting, Suggs expressed confidence in his ability from beyond the arc, emphasizing the importance of putting in the work and maintaining a strong mental approach.