The Orlando Magic know how to put an exclamation point on a winning streak.
During the fourth quarter of Wednesday’s win over the Washington Wizards, Magic guards Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony combined for a steal and completed a wild alley-oop, making an intentional reference in the process. All it takes is a few watches and different angles to understand what they do.
When Anthony fired a shot over Wizards guard Landry Shamet, Suggs stretched out his hands as he ran under the rim, just like the iconic photo of Dwyane Wade with LeBron James during his days with the Miami Heat Same as in.
A better angle:
This photo of James Wade, taken by Associated Press photographer Morry Gash in Milwaukee on December 6, 2010, has become one of the most iconic photos of the NBA this century. Side by side comparison:
It’s a grand gesture, but the Magic look pretty grand right now. The Magic are now 13-5 and have won eight in a row after four straight seasons of under .500 ball and zero playoff series wins dating back to 2010.
Anthony and Suggs have been a huge part of that success so far. On Wednesday, the Magic won 139-120. Suggs scored 22 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals on 9 of 15 shooting, while Anthony came off the bench to score 26 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.
The Magic have also continued to play better throughout the streak, winning five of their last six games by double digits. Not many thought they would be a contender in the East, but they are now in second place between the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks.