New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/8/2024 7:00 PM EST
We have your New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic prop betting and game preview needs covered as the New Orleans Pelicans hit the road to face the Orlando Magic.
New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: New Orleans Pelicans +190 (DraftKings) / Orlando Magic -210 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -6.0 - New Orleans Pelicans -115 (bet365) / -5.5 - Orlando Magic -115 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 213.5 - Under -105 (ESPN BET) / Over -110 (bet365)
Game Info
Date: 11/8/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Kia Center (Orlando, FL)
TV: GCSEN
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
Over the past three seasons, the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans have faced off four times, with Orlando emerging victorious in all encounters. The games were evenly split between home and away victories, with each team winning twice on the road. Orlando consistently outperformed New Orleans against the spread, covering in all four matchups, while the Pelicans failed to cover in any. The games tended to be high-scoring affairs, with the total score going over the set line in three of the four contests, and only once falling under. This trend suggests a pattern of offensive dominance, particularly from the Magic, who have consistently found ways to outscore the Pelicans.
The most recent matchup on April 3, 2024, saw the Orlando Magic defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 117-108. Orlando's Paolo Banchero led the scoring with 32 points, while Franz Wagner contributed 24 points. The Magic shot 51.2% from the field and 40.6% from three-point range, showcasing their offensive efficiency. On the other hand, the Pelicans were led by CJ McCollum's 36 points, with Zion Williamson adding 15 points. Despite shooting 47.4% overall and 41.4% from beyond the arc, New Orleans struggled to keep pace with Orlando's scoring. The Magic capitalized on fast break opportunities, scoring 22 points in transition, and maintained a strong defensive presence with nine steals, ultimately securing a nine-point victory.
In this recent game, Orlando's ability to share the ball was evident, as they recorded 27 assists compared to New Orleans' 21. The Magic also managed to limit their turnovers to 13, while forcing the Pelicans into 14 turnovers. Orlando's largest lead was 20 points, indicating their control over the game. Both teams had similar rebounding numbers, with Orlando grabbing 39 total rebounds to New Orleans' 35. The Magic's effective field goal percentage of 59.375% and true shooting percentage of 62.768% underscored their offensive prowess, while their defensive rating of 113.581 highlighted their ability to contain the Pelicans' scoring threats.
New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic Preview
As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to face the Orlando Magic, both teams find themselves in the midst of challenging stretches, with injuries playing a significant role in their recent struggles. The Pelicans, having lost three consecutive games, are grappling with the absence of key players such as Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herbert Jones, and Trey Murphy III. Despite these setbacks, they have shown resilience, particularly in their recent matchup against the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers, where they managed to stay competitive before ultimately falling short.
Zion Williamson's return to the lineup is a beacon of hope for New Orleans. His performance against the Cavaliers, where he scored 29 points, demonstrated his ability to impact the game significantly. However, the Pelicans will need more than just individual brilliance to overcome their current slump. They have struggled defensively, allowing at least 118 points in six of their last seven games, which has been a critical factor in their recent losses.
On the other side, the Orlando Magic are also navigating a difficult period, having lost five straight games. The absence of All-Star forward Paolo Banchero has been a significant blow, as he was a pivotal figure in their offensive setup. Without him, the Magic have struggled to find their rhythm, particularly in the early stages of games, often finding themselves in substantial deficits. However, their recent performance against the Indiana Pacers showed signs of improvement, with Franz Wagner stepping up to lead the team with 28 points.
Orlando's home court has been a source of strength, as they remain undefeated at the Kia Center this season. Their ability to capitalize on fast break opportunities and maintain a strong defensive presence will be crucial against a Pelicans team that has shown vulnerability on the defensive end. The Magic's offensive efficiency, particularly in transition, could be a decisive factor in this matchup.
As both teams look to end their respective losing streaks, the game promises to be a high-scoring affair, with each side eager to exploit the other's defensive weaknesses. The Pelicans will rely on Williamson's leadership and scoring ability, while the Magic will aim to leverage their home advantage and improve their offensive execution without Banchero. With both teams desperate for a win, this contest is set to be an intriguing battle of resilience and strategy.
New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic Pick: Total Points Over
As the New Orleans Pelicans and Orlando Magic prepare to face off, the conditions are ripe for a high-scoring affair, making the over on the total points a compelling pick. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities on the defensive end, which could lead to a game where offensive prowess takes center stage.
The Pelicans have struggled defensively, allowing at least 118 points in six of their last seven games. This defensive frailty has been a significant factor in their recent losses, and with key players like Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, and Herbert Jones sidelined, their defensive woes are likely to continue. Despite these challenges, the Pelicans have managed to score 111 points or more in three of their last four games, showcasing their ability to put up points even amidst adversity.
On the other hand, the Magic, while grappling with the absence of their star forward Paolo Banchero, have shown signs of offensive improvement. In their recent game against the Indiana Pacers, they managed to score 111 points, indicating a potential resurgence in their scoring capabilities. Orlando's home court advantage at the Kia Center, where they remain undefeated, further bolsters their chances of a strong offensive performance. The Magic have averaged 117.5 points per game in their home outings, underscoring their ability to capitalize on familiar surroundings.
Historically, matchups between these two teams have tended to be high-scoring. In their last four encounters, the total score has gone over the set line in three instances, with both teams demonstrating offensive efficiency. The most recent meeting saw the Magic triumph 117-108, with both teams shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc.
Given these factors, the over on the total points is a logical choice. Both teams are eager to end their losing streaks and will likely focus on exploiting each other's defensive weaknesses. With the Pelicans' defensive struggles and the Magic's potential for offensive resurgence, this game is poised to be a high-scoring battle, making the over a promising pick.
New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic Top Player Prop Picks
Zion Williamson Over 32.5 Points Rebounds -113 (FanDuel)
Zion Williamson's return to the lineup is a significant boost for the New Orleans Pelicans, and his performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he scored 29 points, underscores his ability to impact the game significantly. With the Pelicans struggling defensively, allowing at least 118 points in six of their last seven games, Williamson's offensive contributions will be crucial. His ability to dominate the paint and contribute on the boards makes the over on 32.5 points and rebounds an attractive proposition. Given the Pelicans' need for a strong offensive showing to counterbalance their defensive vulnerabilities, Williamson is likely to be at the forefront of their scoring efforts.
Franz Wagner Over 24.5 Points -104 (FanDuel)
Franz Wagner has been a bright spot for the Orlando Magic amidst their recent struggles, particularly in the absence of Paolo Banchero. Wagner's 28-point performance against the Indiana Pacers highlights his scoring prowess and his ability to step up when needed. With the Magic returning to their home court, where they have been undefeated this season, Wagner is poised to continue his offensive surge. The Pelicans' defensive issues further bolster the case for Wagner to exceed 24.5 points, as Orlando will look to exploit New Orleans' vulnerabilities and maintain their strong home-court performance.
Jalen Suggs Over 4.5 Rebounds -125 (BetMGM)
Jalen Suggs has been a key contributor for the Magic, and his ability to impact the game beyond scoring is crucial for Orlando's success. With the Magic's recent focus on improving their defensive and rebounding efforts, Suggs' role in securing boards becomes even more significant. The Pelicans' struggles on the defensive end and their current lineup adjustments due to injuries present an opportunity for Suggs to capitalize on rebounding chances. His aggressive playstyle and the Magic's need to control the glass make the over on 4.5 rebounds a compelling pick, especially given the odds offered by BetMGM.