Bryan Armetta shares his preview, prediction and pick for Tuesday’s game between the Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Two injury-plagued teams are set to meet tonight for an NBA Cup showdown. For the Magic, it’s been a 4-2 stretch without face of the franchise Paolo Banchero. Now, Orlando will look to earn another short-handed win. It’s a similar story for the 76ers, who are missing a slew of their best players. Still, with budding superstar Tyrese Maxey active, Philly has a shot.
Which of these Eastern Conference contenders will earn a victory this evening? Below is my prediction and pick for Tuesday’s game between the Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Magic are 3.5-point favorites (-115) over the 76ers on DraftKings Sportsbook. Orlando is favored at -175 on the moneyline. The total is set at 227.5 points.
Magic vs. 76ers prediction, preview
Following a rocky start, Orlando gotten back on track over the past two weeks. That’s due in large part to the team returning to its tough, defensively-minded identity. Over their last ten games, the Magic have held their opponents to an average of 112.8 points per game. In that time, only five squads have been stingier on that end of the floor. Key to this defensive success has been limiting damage on the perimeter. Opposing squads are averaging just 11.6 three-pointers per game vs. Orlando, sixth-fewest in basketball.
It’s not as if the Magic are completely lacking in offense, either. Even with Banchero sidelined, Franz Wagner has proven he can take on the role of lead scorer. This season, the German is averaging 23.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game. In addition, the three-and-D forward has delivered efficient 47/35/83 shooting splits. Offseason acquisition Desmond Bane has shown improvement as well, delivering 18+ points in seven of his previous eight outings.
Orlando’s greatest strength right now is on the wings. Unfortunately for the 76ers, that’s their greatest weakness at the moment. Paul George (ankle), V.J. Edgecombe (calf) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (knee) have all been ruled out tonight. In addition, center Joel Embiid () is also on the bench. That leaves Philadelphia without four of its five projected starters. Only Maxey remains, which isn’t the worst consolation prize. This season, the All-Star is averaging 33.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 7.8 assists per game while shooting 47% from the field.
One area that favors Philly is that they’ll be playing at Xfinity Mobile Arena, formerly Wells Fargo Center. Orlando has delivered a mediocre 3-5 record on the road this season. In an intense NBA Cup environment, home-court advantage will only be amplified. Contributions from role players, including Quentin Grimes and Jared McCain, will be crucial for the Sixers. If this turns into a shootout, that could put the Magic in a bind.
Magic vs. 76ers pick, best bet
Points could be at a premium given the firepower missing for both sides. Still, there are enough proven scorers to avoid Tuesday’s 227.5 point total. Instead, the best option for bettors tonight is Orlando. The Magic have proven they can thrive without Banchero, taking down contenders such as the Knicks and Warriors. In comparison, Philadelphia is seriously short-handed, relying on a litany of depth pieces tonight. Given this modest 3.5-point spread, back the visitors to pick up another win.