The Orlando Magic will look to extend their home winning streak to five games as they host the New York Knicks on Saturday at 5 p.m. EST in Orlando, Florida. Currently, the Magic hold a record of 9-7, placing them ninth in the Eastern Conference, while the Knicks stand at 9-5, sitting third in the same conference.
Orlando is eager to maintain its momentum after winning its last four home games. The team has a balanced performance in the Eastern Conference, holding a record of 6-6. The Magic excel in defensive rebounds, ranking eighth in the league with an average of 33.8 per game, driven by Paolo Banchero, who contributes 7.8 rebounds per game.
On the other hand, New York has shown resilience with a 6-5 record against Eastern Conference teams. The Knicks lead the conference with an impressive average of 14.6 offensive rebounds per game, thanks in large part to Mitchell Robinson, who averages 5.4 offensive boards.
Both teams bring their distinctive shooting styles into this matchup. The Magic have a field goal percentage of 47.1%, slightly higher than the 47.0% allowed by the Knicks. Conversely, New York shoots at 45.8%, which is 0.5% below the 46.3% field goal percentage of the Magic’s opponents.
Orlando and New York meet for the second time this season, with their previous encounter on November 13, 2023, resulting in a 124-107 victory for the Magic. In that game, Franz Wagner delivered a standout performance, scoring 28 points.
Key Players and Recent Performance
The Magic have been bolstered by solid performances from several key players. Franz Wagner is averaging 22.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Additionally, Jalen Suggs has been a significant contributor, averaging 23.0 points over the last ten games.
The Knicks counter with their own impressive roster. Karl-Anthony Towns leads New York with averages of 21.5 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. Miles McBride has also been effective, averaging 3.0 made three-pointers over his last ten games.
Both teams have shown strong form recently. The Magic have a 7-3 record in their last ten games, averaging 117.4 points, 45.7 rebounds, and 26.4 assists per game while shooting at 46.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.0 points per game during this stretch.
Similarly, the Knicks hold a 7-3 record over their last ten games, averaging 124.9 points, 46.0 rebounds, and 29.0 assists per game, shooting 47.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.7 points per game during this time.
Injury Updates
In terms of player availability, the Magic will be without Moritz Wagner due to a knee injury, while Paolo Banchero is listed as day-to-day with a groin injury. The Knicks will miss OG Anunoby, who is sidelined with a hamstring issue.
As both teams prepare for this exciting matchup, fans can expect a fiercely contested game that could have significant implications for the standings in the Eastern Conference. The Magic’s home advantage and recent form will be put to the test against a determined Knicks side looking to improve their record.
