Orlando Magic will seek to maintain their recent momentum and strengthen their position in the Eastern Conference standings when they visit the struggling Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night. Fresh from a commanding home victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando heads into this matchup aiming for their fifth win in seven games. Conversely, Charlotte is simply playing for pride at this stage, officially eliminated from playoff contention after their recent defeat against Miami.
Match Info
- NBA Regular Season
- Tuesday 25th March 2025, 18:00 EST / 23:00 GMT
- Spectrum Center, Charlotte, USA
Orlando Magic
The Magic have found form at a critical juncture, entering this matchup on the back of a solid 118-106 victory against the Lakers. Orlando currently holds the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference, which positions them in the second play-in slot. Paolo Banchero has been the standout performer, consistently leading the Magic’s offensive charge. He has scored 30 or more points in three consecutive appearances, underscoring his pivotal role within the team. Franz Wagner also made significant contributions recently, posting 32 points against the Lakers. Although their away record of 15-21 leaves room for improvement, the Magic have won their last two road games and three of their past four outings away from Orlando, hinting at a turnaround in their away form.
Charlotte Hornets
For the Hornets, the remainder of the season now focuses on individual growth and laying foundations for future campaigns. Charlotte (18-53) faces Orlando with a disappointing record, having won just once in their last five games. Defensive frailties remain a persistent concern, with the team conceding 120 or more points in six of their past seven matches. Nick Smith Jr. emerged as a bright spot recently, leading the scoring with 19 points against Miami and showing promising signs for the future. Coach Charles Lee has begun experimenting, notably giving increased minutes to Moussa Diabate at power forward, praising his energy and versatility. Josh Okogie, sidelined since late January due to a hamstring injury, is questionable for this clash as he continues his rehabilitation with Greensboro Swarm in the G League. The Hornets will be eager to reverse their fortunes against Orlando, having failed to score 90 points in any of their three prior meetings this season.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Orlando Magic to win
Orlando’s strong recent form, combined with Charlotte’s defensive struggles and injury concerns, strongly favours a Magic victory.
America Bet Score Prediction
Orlando Magic 112 – 95 Charlotte Hornets
Considering Orlando’s improved offensive efficiency and Charlotte’s defensive vulnerabilities, a comfortable margin of victory for the Magic seems likely.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Orlando Magic to win outright
- Paolo Banchero to score over 25 points
- Franz Wagner to score over 20 points
- Total match points over 205.5
- Charlotte Hornets total points under 100.5
- First half total points over 100.5
- Orlando Magic to lead at halftime and full-time
- Orlando Magic -8.5 point spread
- Paolo Banchero first scorer
- Nick Smith Jr. to score under 18.5 points
