On November 14, 2024, the Eastern Conference Orlando Magic will take on the Indiana Pacers at the Amway Center in what should be a very good even matchup between two very good teams. We aren’t much of a Magic fan, but the Magic (6-6) host the Pacers (5-5) for a match where both teams will hope to rise above .500 and get some continuity early in the season. All you need to know about who will win, including predictions, odds, injury updates, and more.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head
The Magic head into this game on a roll at home, with a four-game winning streak in their own arena. Their defense has been especially sharp, holding opponents to just 106.3 points per game, the second-best in the league, which has paired well with their balanced scoring offense. Their last clash with the Pacers was on November 7, where Indiana won a tight game at home, 118-111. But in their prior meeting on October 29 in Orlando, the Magic came out on top, 119-115. These matchups have been close, with Orlando’s home-court advantage often giving them an edge.
Meanwhile, the Pacers bring a high-powered offense, currently ranking eighth in the league with an average of 116.2 points per game. However, their defense has been less reliable, allowing 118.8 points per game, putting them near the bottom in that category. At 5-5, Indiana’s season has been a mix of impressive offensive performances and games where defensive lapses have cost them.
Betting Odds and Spread
In the latest odds, the Pacers are slight favorites by 1.5 points with a -136 moneyline, while the Magic are at +115. The total over/under is set at 227.5 points. Indiana’s odds reflect confidence in their offense, though the Magic’s solid home defense could offer value if you’re betting on them as underdogs.
- Spread Pick: Magic +1.5
- Over/Under: Under 227.5 points
- Prediction: Magic 116, Pacers 109
Players to Watch
Orlando Magic
- Franz Wagner: Leading Orlando’s offense with 20.9 points per game, Wagner’s shooting efficiency (48%) makes him a reliable scorer who can break down defenses.
- Jalen Suggs: Known for his strong defense, Suggs averages 1.6 steals along with a steady 15.4 points per game. His ability to disrupt Indiana’s offense will be crucial.
- Wendell Carter Jr.: Averaging 8.8 rebounds per game, Carter is essential for the Magic’s presence inside, although his doubtful status due to injury could impact Orlando’s interior defense.
Indiana Pacers
- Tyrese Haliburton: Fresh off a 35-point game, Haliburton is the key to Indiana’s offense, averaging 8.3 assists per game. His scoring and playmaking could challenge Orlando’s perimeter defense.
- Myles Turner: With a league-leading 1.8 blocks per game, Turner’s defense will be critical, particularly if Carter Jr. is sidelined. Turner also adds offensive depth, averaging 17.4 points.
- Bennedict Mathurin: Scoring 19.4 points per game, Mathurin is Indiana’s secondary scoring option. Shooting 55% from the field, his efficiency will be key against Orlando’s defense.
Injury Updates
Injuries may influence this game. The Magic’s Wendell Carter Jr. is listed as doubtful, which could impact their interior strength against players like Myles Turner. Paolo Banchero and Andrew Nembhard are also out, which limits Orlando’s bench options. For Indiana, Obi Toppin is doubtful, while Aaron Nesmith and Isaiah Jackson are out, reducing their defensive rotation options.
Game Breakdown
Orlando’s Defense vs. Indiana’s Offense
The Magic’s defense ranks among the league’s best, which will be key in containing Indiana’s fast-paced offense. The Pacers rely on pushing the tempo and taking quick shots, but Orlando has proven they can slow down even high-scoring teams. Suggs and Wagner will need to be sharp to keep Haliburton and Mathurin from getting into a rhythm.
Indiana’s Defense vs. Orlando’s Offense
Indiana’s defense has struggled this season, ranking 25th in points allowed, which could be an advantage for Orlando. The Magic aren’t known for explosive scoring but are effective and balanced, and they may be able to capitalize on Indiana’s defensive vulnerabilities—especially if Carter Jr. is able to play and can draw defenders inside.
Betting Insight and Final Prediction
Given the Pacers’ defensive issues and the Magic’s recent home success, Orlando looks likely to cover the +1.5 spread and could take the win outright. Indiana’s high-powered offense could push the total close to the over/under of 227.5, but Orlando’s slower pace and defensive control may keep the final score under that mark.
Orlando’s home-court edge and strong defense give them a solid shot at handling Indiana’s scoring threats. Although Indiana holds a slight scoring advantage, their inconsistency on defense could make them vulnerable. Expect a close game where the Magic’s defense could ultimately tip the scales in their favor.
Prediction: Magic 116, Pacers 109