The Portland Trail Blazers (15-28) face the Orlando Magic (23-22) at the Kia Center on January 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. Portland enters the game on a two-game win streak, while Orlando looks to bounce back from a four-game losing skid as injuries have hampered their lineup.
In their last meeting on April 1, 2024, Orlando narrowly edged Portland, 104-103. The Magic have won four of the past five matchups, but Portland aims to take advantage of Orlando’s current struggles and limited depth.
Portland Trail Blazers Preview – Building Momentum
The Trail Blazers come into this game following a 116-107 road win over the Miami Heat. Deandre Ayton led the way with 22 points and 15 rebounds, marking his second consecutive double-double. Anfernee Simons bounced back with 24 points, matching his total from the previous three games combined.
Portland has struggled overall this season, ranking 26th in the league in points per game (108.1). However, their recent improved play on both ends of the court has fueled their modest winning streak. Ayton’s dominance in the paint and Simons’ ability to score from outside are key factors in their offense.
The Blazers remain inconsistent on defense, allowing opponents to shoot 47.1% from the field (20th in the league). To extend their winning streak, Portland must tighten up defensively, particularly against Paolo Banchero, Orlando’s offensive centerpiece.
Orlando Magic Preview – Fighting Through Adversity
The Magic are navigating a tough stretch, losing six of their last seven games. Injuries have taken a toll on their rotation, with key contributors Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Moritz Wagner sidelined. Paolo Banchero, however, has stepped up since his return, averaging 25.3 points over his last 11 games.
Orlando is the NBA’s lowest-scoring team at 103.9 points per game, struggling to generate offense consistently without key players. Banchero scored 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in their recent 109-93 loss to Toronto, highlighting his ability to carry the team despite limited support.
Defensively, Orlando ranks second in points allowed per game (104.4), keeping them competitive despite offensive struggles. To secure a win, the Magic will need to contain Ayton and limit Simons’ production from beyond the arc.
Betting Prediction
Orlando is favored by 8.5 points, with the total set at 211.5. Given the Magic’s defensive prowess and Portland’s inconsistencies, Orlando has a solid chance to cover the spread, particularly if Banchero continues his strong play. The game is likely to be a low-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ trends and the total going under in recent matchups.
Projected final score: Orlando 104, Portland 95. Orlando should cover, and the total is expected to stay under 211.5 points.
Pick: Orlando -8.5, Under 211.5
