Orlando Magic vs New York Knicks Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 13/12/2025, 03:27  by Geoffrey Ejiga | Modified on 13/12/2025 at 04:08 in NBA Predictions

The first semifinal game of the NBA Cup will see the Orlando Magic taking on the New York Knicks for the fourth time this season. With both teams' offensive ratings so far, we're confident this game can end with 218+ points by the final buzzer. Let's get into our match prediction.

The Knicks have the second-highest offensive rating in the league (124.4), just behind the Denver Nuggets. And that offensive performance has also seen the Knicks make 120.7 points per game, the 4th-most, just behind the Nuggets, OKC, and the Heat. Interestingly, Orlando isn't too far behind on that list, as they average 117.8 PPG.

Both teams also have some of the best defences, as the Knicks allow 112.4 (6th) while the Magic allows 113.5 (8th). But those are still significant numbers, and when you combine their sheer offensive output, that's a recipe for a relatively high-scoring game. They've met thrice already this season, and the first two games went way beyond this line. Magic won the first and second, winning 124-107 (131 points) and 133-121 (154) without overtime.

The next game ended 106-100 with the Knicks winning, but Franz Wagner’s Q1 injury (after scoring 7 points in 7 minutes) was mainly to blame. He dropped 28 and 37 points in the first two games, so his absence, along with reduced minutes for the recovering Banchero, saw the Magic play through with a blunt attack. Wager remains doubtful, but Banchero’s full return and Bane’s increased role should make up for his absence.