New York Knicks vs Orlando Magic Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 08/03/2024, 06:05  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 08/03/2024 at 06:05 in NBA Predictions

The New York Knicks will play host to the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden in the NBA on Friday night. The hosts are 36-26 and fifth in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 37-26 and fourth in the Conference standings. 

The Orlando Magic have been on an impressive streak, securing victories in eight of their last nine games overall. They will now aim to extend their winning streak to six consecutive victories after a dominant 119-109 road win against the Wizards on Wednesday. Franz Wagner led the charge with 28 points, supported by Paolo Banchero's 25 points and 10 assists. Despite being the 26th-ranked scoring team in the NBA with an average of 111.4 points per game, the Magic have relied heavily on their strong defense. They currently allow just 109.5 points per game, ranking third in the league, and boast a defensive rating of 111.8, also ranking third. In contrast, New York's team is fifth in points allowed per game, conceding 109.9 points on average. Wendell Carter Jr.'s availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain.

On the other hand, the New York Knicks have been enduring a rough patch, losing eight of their last 11 games overall. They will be hoping to turn things around here after suffering a heavy 116-100 defeat against the Hawks on Tuesday. Donte DiVincenzo led the team with 21 points and six assists, supported by Bogdan Bogdanovic's 19 points off the bench. The Knicks rank 20th in the NBA's scoring charts with an average of 113.2 points per game. Notably, New York's defense has been a key aspect of their game, as they concede an average of 109.8 points per game, ranking fifth overall. Additionally, their defense tends to perform better in home games, allowing 107.6 points per game, compared to 112.2 points per game in away games. Unfortunately, New York will be without the services of OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson, while Jalen Brunson's status remains day-to-day.