NBA Preview: Magic vs Hornets - Injury Updates, Odds, Predictions and How to Watch
The Orlando Magic (1-4) are set to face the Charlotte Hornets (2-2) at Spectrum Center in an NBA game scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. ET. The Magic, currently on a four-game losing streak, are coming off a 135-116 defeat to the Detroit Pistons, with key players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner contributing significantly despite the team's struggles on defense. The Hornets, who lost 144-117 to the Miami Heat, boast a strong offense ranking third in the NBA, averaging 128.2 points per game, but their defense has been poor, allowing 124.8 points per game. The latest injury report indicates that Magic forward Franz Wagner is questionable with a left heel contusion. Wagner, averaging 22.4 points this season, played 33 minutes in the last game and scored 22 points. If Wagner is sidelined, Tristan da Silva and Jett Howard are expected to step up to fill the void. Charlotte will be without Brandon Miller, who remains sidelined with a shoulder injury. LaMelo Ball continues to lead the Hornets, but the team will need to rely on its offensive firepower to keep the game competitive. Betting odds favor the Magic with a moneyline of -145, but the prediction leans towards a close game with a score of Magic 124, Hornets 122. The Magic are favored to cover the spread at -3.5, while the over/under is set at 240.5, reflecting expectations of a high-scoring game due to both teams' weak defenses. The game can be streamed live on Fubo, and fans are encouraged to stay updated on injury reports and betting tips for the matchup.
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