The New Orleans Pelicans will take on the Orlando Magic on March 21 (Thursday). This is the first meeting between the two teams this season, with Magic sweeping the last season series. Both Pelicans and Magic are in fifth place in their respective conferences. Both teams have star duos and have surprised a lot of basketball fans with their play. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram are the stars for New Orleans, while Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero are Orlando’s future.
Preview
The Pelicans are starting to have a strong hold on the No. 5 spot in the Western Conference. They have won eight of their last 10 games and are currently on a three-game winning streak.
Meanwhile, the Magic also looks to be a potential fifth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 2.5 game lead over the Pacers. They have won eight of their last 10 games, just like the Pelicans, and are on a four-game winning streak. Orlando is coming off a blowout win against the Charlotte Hornets.
Starting lineup
The Pelicans have two players in their injury report out, of whom is questionable. New Orleans will most likely start with CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas.
On the other hand, the Orlando Magic have a healthy roster. They are expected to start with Jalen Suggs, Gary Harris, Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Wendell Carter Jr.
Betting tips & Prediction
Zion Williamson’s over/under for the upcoming contest is 23.5 points, which is lower than his season average. However, he has scored at least 26 points in his last five games. You can bet on him to go over.
Paolo Bachero is expected to score less than 21.5 points, which is lower than his season average. He has gone over this mark only once in his last four games. However, you should bet on him to go over, as the upcoming contest will be close.
Also Read: Chicago Bulls vs Houston Rockets: Prediction (Mar 21, 2024)
The New Orleans Pelicans are slight favorites to win against the Magic. However, Orlando has the home court advantage. Oddsmakers have predicted that the Magic will get the upset win and will cover the spread. The total is expected to go over 207.5 points.
