Spurs frustrate Magic with timely defense in 102-89 victory

Updated Nov. 5, 2021 10:26 p.m. ET

Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — In addition to Dejounte Murray shooting the 3-pointer better and scoring at a career-best clip, San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said his point guard has shown marked improvement in his leadership abilities and knowing when to take games over.

Murray did both Friday night in the fourth quarter by taking over a close game in the Spurs' 102-89 victory over the Orlando Magic.

Murray finished with 20 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and three steals — six of those points, three assists and all of the steals coming in the final period. After Orlando cut it to 87-80, Murray answered with two baskets.

“Especially down the stretch when they cut it to seven, (Murray) kept his composure,” Popovich said. “That’s what it takes in the fourth quarter — solid, solid possessions to give us a chance to score.”

Keldon Johnson added 20 points and nine rebounds to help San Antonio improve to 3-6. Derrick White, Devin Vassell and Thaddeus Young each scored 12 points. Young, who added five assists, marvels at the growth that Murray has made.

“Dejounte has done a phenomenal job running this team,” Young said. “He’s taking that big step and his game has evolved. He’s making threes, the midrange shot, he’s getting to the basket at will and he’s as tough as they come. On the defensive side he creates havoc. That’s huge having our point guard clicking on all cylinders.”

Murray’s defense played a big role in Orlando turning the ball over 18 times — nine of those miscues coming in the final quarter.

Cole Anthony had 21 points, nine rebounds and six assists for Orlando. Anthony, who scored 13 fourth-quarter points, said Magic miscues cost his team a chance of pulling off a come-from-behind win.

“I had five (turnovers) and Jalen (Suggs) had five, so we’ve got to be better there,” Anthony said. “I’ve got to play better. I took too many bad shots and played selfishly. Just got to play better.”

Wendell Carter Jr. added 13 points and 10 rebounds for Orlando, which fell to 0-4 at home.

TIP-INS

Spurs: Johnson scored seven early points before rolling his right ankle and leaving the floor. He returned to the game in the second quarter. … Jakob Poeltl missed his second straight game because of NBA Health and Safety protocols.

Magic: Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis attended the game and sat courtside. … Gary Harris, who missed five of Orlando’s first nine games with hamstring and ankle injuries, returned and had three points. ... Suggs continues to struggle from 3-point range. He missed five of six tries.

UP NEXT

Spurs: At Oklahoma City on Sunday night.

Magic: Host Utah on Sunday night.