Orlando Magic Host Washington Wizards: Preview, Odds, and Key Matchups for November 10, 2024

The Orlando Magic are set to host the Washington Wizards at the Kia Center on Sunday, November 10, 2024, in a matchup that promises to be an intriguing clash between two teams with different strengths and weaknesses.

The Washington Wizards, currently sitting at 2-5, are on a three-game losing streak after a disappointing 128-104 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday. Despite their struggles, the Wizards have shown flashes of offensive potency, but their defense has been a significant concern. They are averaging 112.4 points per game but are allowing a league-worst 124.0 points per game. Jordan Poole leads the team in scoring with an average of 20.7 points per game, while Jonas Valanciunas is the top rebounder with 7.7 rebounds per game. The Wizards will be without Malcolm Brogdon and Saddiq Bey, and Kyle Kuzma and Marvin Bagley III are listed as questionable.

On the other hand, the Orlando Magic (4-6) are looking to extend their three-game home winning streak after snapping a five-game losing streak with a convincing 115-88 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday. Franz Wagner led the Magic with 27 points and six assists, while Goga Bitadze contributed significantly with 11 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks. The Magic’s defense has been one of the best in the league, allowing just 107.5 points per game, but their offense has been less impressive, averaging only 106.7 points per game. The Magic will be without Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr. and Jonathan Isaac are questionable[4].

The betting odds favor the Magic, with Orlando listed as 8-point favorites and a total points line of 221.5. The Magic have a strong record at home against teams with losing records, having won each of their last 22 games in such matchups. Additionally, the Wizards have struggled in night games following a road loss, losing each of their last 15 such games[2].

A key matchup to watch will be the pace of the game, as the Wizards aim to exploit the Magic’s transition defense. The Wizards average 20.9 fast-break points per game, the second-most in the league, while the Magic give up 13.8 fast-break points per game. Goga Bitadze’s return from injury has also been a significant factor for the Magic, providing a strong presence on the offensive glass and in the paint on defense[4].