The Utah Jazz have a one-game lead for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference, thanks to the Phoenix Suns' loss earlier in the day on Saturday and their 117-107 overtime win over the Orlando Magic. The Magic have been fighting to keep their playoff seed high without Dwight Howard in the lineup, but they have lost nine of their last 13, including this game, and appear to be headed to the No. 6 seed in the East.
Magic Vs. Jazz Final Score: Utah Victorious 117-107 In Overtime
With 30 seconds remaining in regulation, Orlando led 101-99. Paul Millsap appeared to make a basket for Utah while being fouled, but the officials reversed their original decision of a basket and a free throw, instead ruling that the contact came before the shot. The Jazz wouldn't get a shot at a three-point play at the line to take the lead, but Al Jefferson knocked down a jumper on the ensuing inbounds pass to tie the game and force overtime.
Utah was fantastic in the extra period, with Devin Harris leading the way. He scored his team's last two field goals to ice the game, and he finished with 21 points on the night. Al Jefferson had a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Derrick Favors contributed an impressive 16 and 11 off the bench.
Orlando shot the ball very well throughout the game and stuck around by shooting 15-38 from behind the arc, but the points dried up in OT and they had little answer for Utah’s size on the other end throughout the game, leading to the Jazz victory.
For more on the Orlando Magic, visit SB Nation’s Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post and SB Nation Tampa Bay. For more on the Utah Jazz, visit SB Nation’s Jazz blog SLC Dunk. For more on the NBA in general, visit SB Nation’s dedicated NBA hub.
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