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Jevon Carter’s arrival is already making waves, and he isn’t just changing the game—he’s even influencing Jalen Suggs’ look. During a Sunday night clash with the Pistons at the Kia Center, Suggs appeared almost unrecognizable with a completely shaved head, a bold departure after years of experimenting with different hairstyles.
Suggs explained that the look was inspired by his new teammate. After practice on Monday ahead of Tuesday’s Wizards game, he said, “I shaved my head in light of Jevon. I’m trying to follow in his footsteps with the baldy.” Carter, who joined Orlando on February 6 after the Magic traded Tyus Jones, has already left a notable imprint beyond haircuts. Through seven appearances, the eight-year veteran has averaged 6.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals in about 21 minutes per game.
Suggs praised Carter, noting that his work ethic is exceptional. “The way he works every day is top-notch,” Suggs said. “He’s one of the hardest workers I’ve been around, for sure.” Carter’s impact extends to the court as well. In Orlando’s first six games after the All-Star break, Carter has been part of Jamahl Mosley’s rotation, averaging 23.8 minutes off the bench. NBA tracking data shows that when Carter defended nearby, opponents shot measurably worse, with field-goal percentage dropping by 3.1 percentage points, and three-point efficiency dipping by 8.4 percentage points during that span.
But Carter’s influence isn’t limited to defense or statistics. In and out of games, he communicates candidly with Suggs and the rest of the locker room, offering blunt, constructive feedback rather than sugarcoated praise. Suggs described Carter as someone who holds him accountable with honest, direct talk, which he values highly. “He’s sharing real truth with me, and I’ve appreciated that,” Suggs said. “It’s been nice having him around.”
As for Suggs himself, he’s still finding his rhythm after missing three games with a back injury. In his return game against Houston, he went 1-for-5 and recorded two points with four turnovers in limited minutes. Against Detroit on Sunday, he shot 4-for-17, but all four makes came from beyond the arc, and he finished with three rebounds, four assists, and just two turnovers in 26 minutes.
Suggs said the recent game was a better approach overall and emphasized focusing on controllable factors—mental readiness, joy, and consistency—rather than results alone. He noted that while not every shot will fall, he’s building off the previous performance and remaining committed to doing what he can control.
Looking ahead, Orlando hosts Washington on Tuesday before continuing a four-game home stretch with a Thursday matchup against Dallas. For Suggs, healthy and reenergized, the moment is ripe for a postseason push with Carter contributing both on and off the floor.
"This is a fun time of the year," Suggs reflected. "I’ve been preparing for this season, and I’m looking forward to it. The key is staying present, fully intentional, and ready every night for my teammates. There are no do-overs in the playoffs; you either win or you’re done. So I’m focused on enjoying the ride, returning to joy and purpose, and letting everything else fall into place."
Jason Beede can be reached at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com
Upcoming game: Magic vs. Mavericks at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Kia Center. TV coverage: FanDuel Sports Network Florida.
