The Orlando Magic host the Golden State Warriors at the Kia Center in Orlando on Thursday night, with tip-off set for 7:00 PM ET. The Warriors (31-27) are eighth in the Western Conference, while the Magic (29-31) are seventh in the East. Both teams are looking to gain ground in their respective playoff races as the regular season winds down.
The last meeting between these teams saw the Warriors edge the Magic 104-99 on February 3 in San Francisco. Golden State is 6-1 since acquiring Jimmy Butler and is riding high after a dominant 128-92 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Meanwhile, the Magic are trying to bounce back from a crushing 40-point loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Golden State Warriors Preview – Can the Warriors Keep Rolling?
The Golden State Warriors are on a hot streak, winning six of their last seven games since acquiring Jimmy Butler. While Butler only scored six points against the Hornets, his defense and leadership have been instrumental in the Warriors’ recent success. The team has climbed to eighth place in the Western Conference and is just half a game behind the sixth-seeded Los Angeles Clippers.
Stephen Curry leads the Warriors with 23.3 points per game, while Butler has averaged 18 points since joining the team. The Warriors have shown improved depth, with eight players averaging double figures. Draymond Green has also contributed with his playmaking and defense, adding 15 points, six assists, and six rebounds in their latest win.
Golden State will be without Jonathan Kuminga, who is sidelined with an ankle injury. The Warriors will need strong contributions from Moses Moody and Brandon Podziemski to maintain their momentum on this road trip.
Orlando Magic Preview – Can the Magic Turn Things Around?
The Orlando Magic have struggled recently, falling from third to seventh in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off their worst loss of the season, a 40-point blowout against the Cavaliers. Injuries have played a role in their decline, with key players like Jalen Suggs (quad) and Moritz Wagner (knee) out of the lineup. Cole Anthony is also questionable with a knee injury.
Despite the struggles, the Magic boast the NBA’s top defense, allowing just 105.5 points per game. However, they rank last in scoring at 103.9 points per game. Paolo Banchero, who averages 23 points per game, and Franz Wagner (19 points per game) need to carry the load offensively. The team will also look to Wendell Carter Jr. for support in the paint.
Orlando will need to regain its physical and aggressive style of play that coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized. The Magic’s ability to limit the Warriors’ scoring and generate points in transition could determine their chances of securing a win.
Betting Prediction
Golden State is a 4.5-point favorite, with the total set at 210.5 points. The Warriors’ recent form and the Magic’s struggles make Golden State the safer pick. The Magic’s defense could keep the game close, but their inability to score consistently is a significant concern.
Predicted score: Golden State 105, Orlando 95. The Warriors should cover the spread, and the total points might stay under if Orlando’s defense holds up.
Pick: Golden State Warriors -4.5
