The Los Angeles Lakers travel to face the Orlando Magic on March 24 at the Kia Center. The Lakers hold a 43-27 record and sit fourth in the Western Conference, while the Magic are 33-38 and eighth in the Eastern Conference. Orlando edged out Los Angeles 119-118 in their previous meeting on November 21.
Los Angeles is looking to bounce back after allowing 146 points in a blowout loss to Chicago. Orlando has been inconsistent, alternating wins and losses in their last eight games. Both teams are fighting for key playoff positioning as the season nears its end.
Lakers Preview – Finding Defensive Answers
The Lakers have dropped six of their last nine games, and defense has been a problem. They allowed 146 points to the Bulls in their most recent loss, the most they have given up this season. The return of LeBron James was expected to boost the team, but James had just 17 points and Los Angeles struggled on both ends.
Since joining the Lakers, Luka Doncic has been the team’s most consistent scorer. Doncic has averaged 26.9 points per game and has topped 30 points in four of his last five contests. Anthony Davis has continued to be a strong inside presence, but the Lakers need improved perimeter defense to get back on track.
Los Angeles ranks 19th in scoring at 112.8 points per game, while their defense is middle of the pack, giving up 106.1 points. The Lakers will need to limit Orlando’s scoring runs and avoid defensive breakdowns that have plagued them lately.
Magic Preview – Banchero Carrying the Load
Paolo Banchero has been red-hot for Orlando, averaging 30.6 points per game over his last 12 contests. He scored 30 points in the Magic’s recent win over Washington and has been the focal point of their offense. Franz Wagner has provided steady scoring support, including a game-winning three-pointer in their November win over the Lakers.
Orlando’s defense has been its strength this season. They allow just 106.1 points per game, the best mark in the NBA. The Magic struggle to score consistently, ranking last in the league at 104.8 points per game.
Orlando will rely heavily on Banchero to create scoring chances, especially with Jalen Suggs and Moritz Wagner out for the season. Wendell Carter Jr. has been strong inside, averaging 16 points and 12 rebounds in his last outing. The Magic’s ability to slow the pace and win low-scoring games has been key to staying competitive.
Betting Prediction
Los Angeles is favored by 4.5 points with a total set at 218. The Lakers’ defense has struggled, but they have enough scoring power with Doncic and James to outpace Orlando. The Magic’s defense could slow the game down, but Orlando’s limited scoring options may hurt their chances late in the game.
Look for the Lakers to respond after their recent poor performance. With Doncic playing at a high level and James working his way back, Los Angeles should take control and win this one by a comfortable margin.
Pick: Los Angeles Lakers -4.5
The Lakers come back from a bad loss in Chicago, and win this one in Orlando.
