Magic, Jazz Clash in Salt Lake City Amid Losing Streaks

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Orlando Magic (24-25) and Utah Jazz (10-36) face off Saturday at 5 p.m. ET at the Delta Center, with both teams looking to snap losing streaks. The Magic have dropped seven of their last eight games, while the Jazz are mired in an eight-game skid.

The Magic are coming off a 119-90 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday, failing to cover as 5-point favorites. Meanwhile, the Jazz were routed 138-113 by the Minnesota Timberwolves the same night, unable to cover as 5.5-point underdogs. Utah previously defeated Orlando 105-92 on Jan. 5 in their first meeting this season.

Orlando has struggled offensively, scoring 100 or fewer points in six of its last eight games. The team is also 9-16 on the road this season, including five consecutive losses. “We’ve got to find a way to generate more offense,” said Magic guard Cole Anthony. “It’s been a tough stretch, but we’re focused on turning things around.”

The Jazz, despite their poor record, have been competitive against the spread, going 23-23 this season. However, they have failed to cover in their last four games, their longest such streak of the year. Utah is also just 3-17 at home this season and has lost 13 straight games at the Delta Center.

Betting analysts suggest the game could be a low-scoring affair. The first meeting between the two teams totaled just 197 points, and 18 of Orlando’s last 19 games have stayed under 219 points. “With both teams struggling to score, the Under looks like a solid bet,” said Eric, a betting analyst at Covers. “The Magic’s defensive efficiency and Utah’s turnover issues could keep this one tight.”

The Magic are listed as 5.5-point favorites, but their recent form raises questions about their ability to cover. Utah’s home struggles and Orlando’s road woes make this a tricky matchup for bettors. The game will be broadcast on FDSN and KJZZ.