The Orlando Magic and Indiana Pacers face off again on Wednesday night, this time at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. These teams last met on October 28, with the Magic narrowly defeating the Pacers 119-115 in Orlando. Both teams are still finding their form early in the season, and each will look to build momentum in the Eastern Conference standings.
Orlando has hit a rough patch since that last game against Indiana, with several losses and key injuries. Meanwhile, Indiana is coming off a strong offensive showing and looks to keep that rhythm going at home. This game offers a chance for each team to prove themselves as they work toward more consistent play.
Orlando Magic: Scoring Struggles Without Banchero
The Magic enter this game on a tough four-game losing streak, struggling to score without star Paolo Banchero. Banchero’s recent injury has taken a toll on Orlando’s offense, as the team has struggled to reach 100 points in most games since he went out. Their latest loss, an 86-102 setback against Oklahoma City, saw the team shooting just 42.2 percent from the field. Franz Wagner led with 22 points, while Jalen Suggs added 19 points, six rebounds, and six assists.
Orlando has been focusing on drawing fouls to generate offense, ranking among the top in free-throw attempts per game. However, without Banchero, the team needs to find new scoring options. Coach Jamahl Mosley noted they are working on getting better shots and playing confidently. The Magic will need more players to step up to avoid extending this losing streak.
Indiana Pacers: Building Momentum with Balanced Scoring
The Pacers have bounced back since their previous loss to Orlando. After a strong 134-127 victory over Dallas, Indiana has won two of its last three games. In their latest game, Myles Turner shined with 30 points and 11 rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton contributed 25 points and 12 assists. Haliburton, last season’s assists leader, struggled at the season’s start but has been hitting double-digit assists in his recent games, helping the Pacers maintain an efficient offense.
Indiana’s scoring depth is a major factor, with all five starters scoring in double figures against Dallas. Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin have also been reliable scorers, with Mathurin tallying 65 points over the last three games. The Pacers’ recent wins over the Mavericks and the reigning champion Celtics show they are ready to compete with strong teams, and they’re likely feeling confident heading into this matchup with Orlando.
Prediction and Betting Pick
With Orlando struggling on offense and Indiana finding a rhythm, the Pacers seem well-positioned to take this game at home. Indiana’s depth and balanced scoring should give them an edge, especially with the Magic’s current limitations without Banchero. Expect the Pacers to leverage their strong offense for a home win.
Prediction: Indiana Pacers 120, Orlando Magic 106
