Magic rally to defeat Pistons in overtime

This story was written by Marcos Chisholm. Follow him on Twitter @marcosgchisholm.

After losing a 22 point lead, the Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 116-112 in overtime at the Amway Center on Wednesday.

Markelle Fultz earned his third double-double on the season, scoring 22 points and tallying 10 assists. Aaron Gordon finished the night with 25 points and nine assists in 42 minutes.

During the first half, Orlando was at its most comfortable after Evan Fournier made a three-point field goal with 6:51 left in the second quarter. The Pistons erased the 22 point deficit by converting 40 percent of team three-point attempts and outscoring Orlando 38-20 on bench points.

“It was huge. I think that’s what we all had on our minds, we know we gave a big lead, we know it was going back but we know we needed a win,” Fultz said.

Fultz’s balanced approach to Orlando’s offense helped the Magic lead both teams in assists (34-28). Magic forward Evan Fourier recognizes the young player’s progress and journey following his injuries.

“That’s really his first year playing,” Magic forward Evan Fournier said. “He’s getting more comfortable and he understand what the defense gives him, he makes the most of it and he had some huge plays for us down the stretch.”

Christian Wood had 26 points and 12 turnovers throughout 38 minutes of play. He shot 7-of-8 from the free-throw line and Tony Snell scored 16 points and earned five assists. Both players were the only Pistons starters to finish with negative net ratings for the evening. The Pistons developed a lead as large as seven points in the fourth quarter.

Heading into Wednesday, the Magic were 2-8 through their last 10 games. They head into the All-Star break in control of the final Eastern Conference playoff spot.