The Orlando Magic travel to Fiserv Forum on Tuesday night to face the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup quarterfinals. Both teams are looking to extend their recent momentum in what promises to be a closely contested game. The Magic, sitting at 17-9, have been a defensive powerhouse, while the Bucks, at 12-11, aim to capitalize on their offensive depth and home-court advantage.
Orlando Magic
The Magic are coming off a 115-110 victory over the Phoenix Suns, maintaining their perfect 10-0 record at home. Jalen Suggs starred with 26 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter, while Goga Bitadze added a double-double with 21 points and 16 rebounds. Orlando’s strong team defense, ranked third in the NBA with a 105.7 defensive rating, has been the foundation of their success.
Injury woes remain a concern for the Magic, with Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero sidelined due to oblique injuries. Coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized a “next man up” mentality, and contributions from role players like Jonathan Isaac (questionable) and Gary Harris (out) will be crucial. Despite these setbacks, the Magic’s balanced roster and defensive identity have kept them competitive against top-tier opponents.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks snapped a two-game losing streak with a 118-113 road win over the Brooklyn Nets. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 34 points and 11 rebounds, while Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. provided scoring off the bench. The Bucks boast a well-rounded attack, ranking 10th in offensive rating (113.9) and excelling in three-point shooting at 39.4%.
Milwaukee is fully healthy for the first time this season, with Khris Middleton returning to action. Middleton’s ability to space the floor and create shots adds another layer to the Bucks’ offense. Coach Doc Rivers will rely on Antetokounmpo’s leadership to control the tempo and keep the Bucks in contention as they aim to advance to the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas.
Pick and Prediction
This matchup features a clash of styles, with Orlando’s stout defense going against Milwaukee’s balanced offense. The Magic’s recent dominance at home and defensive prowess give them a slight edge, even with their injury concerns. However, the Bucks’ depth and Antetokounmpo’s MVP-caliber play make them a formidable opponent at home.
Expect a competitive game with the Bucks narrowly pulling out a win, leveraging their experience and three-point shooting to outlast the Magic in the final moments.
- Prediction: Milwaukee Bucks 112, Orlando Magic 108
