The New Orleans Hornets rallied from a 15-point deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic 85-80 in front of a sold out Mexico City Arena.
The Magic had a 12-point lead after three quarters, but were outscored 31-14 in the final period.
Despite the loss, this was probably a game the Magic feel pretty good about. They were without Al Harrington (knee), Quentin Richardson (stomach flu), Ish Smith (shoulder), Arron Afflalo (hamstring), Christian Eyenga (hamstring) and Moe Harkless (sports hernia). Plus, the starters played pretty well. Several of the players who contributed to the blown lead likely won't be on the opening night roster.
E'Twaun Moore, who was playing point guard due to the absence of Smith, finished with 16 points and seven assists. Despite the more-than-solid numbers, the Magic weren't able to get into much of a flow with Moore running the offense down the stretch.
Gustavo Ayon, a native of Mexico, had 12 points, six rebounds and three assists while receiving loud ovations throughout the game. Ryan Anderson, who was dealt in exchange for Ayon as part of a sign-and-trade in the offseason, had six points and eight rebounds, but was just one-of-11 from the field.
Brian Roberts led the Hornets with 17 points off of the bench. Rookies Anthony Davis (eight points, eight rebounds, two blocks) and Austin Rivers (10 points on two-of-six shooting) made their NBA debuts.
The Magic will be back in action Thursday night when they host the Philadelphia 76ers.