The Orlando Magic(3-6) will host the New Orleans Pelicans(3-6) at the Kia Centre on Friday. In the early going of the season, both squads have battled. On Wednesday, Cleveland beat New Orleans 131–122, extending their losing run to three games. After a promising start, Orlando dropped its fifth straight game against Indiana, 118-111. This upcoming match is of significant importance for both teams.
Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum, two of the Pelicans’ notable players, are among the team’s absences. Their absence could potentially impact the team’s performance. The Pelicans are currently 22nd in the league in scoring with 109.3 points per game, allowing 117.9 points per game. They haven’t been great defensively or at shooting field goals, but they’re respectable from beyond the arc.
Without standout player Paolo Banchero, the Magic are 105.9 ppg (28th in the NBA) and have offensive struggles. On defence, they rank tenth, allowing 109.8 points per game. Jalen Suggs scores 17.3 points per game, second only to Franz Wagner’s 18.8 points among current scorers. The health of Orlando’s top rebounder, Wendell Carter Jr., is in doubt for tonight’s match.
The odds favour the Orlando Magic, who have been playing well lately despite a number of ailments, including injuries to key players. The Magic should win because of their strong defence and home court advantage.