Pelicans Face Magic in Preseason Finale Thursday Night

Orlando, Florida – The New Orleans Pelicans will close out their four-game preseason series with a matchup against the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. The Pelicans kicked off their preseason early with two games in Australia followed by two road contests, ending their preseason with this game.

Despite the low expectations set by analysts, there is considerable excitement surrounding the Pelicans. In contrast, the Magic enter the game with higher expectations thanks to their roster, which includes two All-NBA caliber players and newcomer Desmond Bane. The game presents an opportunity for both teams to gauge their readiness for the upcoming season.

The Pelicans will be without several key players for this matchup. Guard Dejounte Murray remains sidelined with an Achilles injury that might keep him out until the start of 2026. Also listed as inactive is center Derik Queen, who is recovering from offseason surgery. The most notable absence is Kevon Looney, who suffered a left knee sprain earlier this week and will miss the game.

Meanwhile, the Magic had 17 players participate in their recent game against the Miami Heat and are expected to utilize their primary roster against New Orleans. However, guard Jalen Suggs and center Moe Wagner will not be playing. Suggs is reportedly set to warm up with the team but will not take the court.

The game will tip off at 7:00 p.m. EST in Orlando, providing both teams with a critical final chance to assess their rosters before the regular season begins.