Orlando Magic vs Utah Jazz Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 29/02/2024, 05:40  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 29/02/2024 at 11:00 in NBA Prediction

The Orlando Magic will play host to the Utah Jazz at the Amway Center in the NBA on Thursday night. The hosts are 33-26 and eighth in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 27-32 and 11th in the Western Conference. 

The Utah Jazz have been struggling recently, losing six of their last seven games. They will be looking to turn things around here after a heavy 124-97 road defeat to the Hawks on Tuesday. Collin Sexton led the scoring for the team with 22 points and six steals, while Keyonte George and Walker Kessler each contributed 14 points. Utah is currently ranked ninth in scoring in the NBA, averaging 117.7 points per game, while defensively, the Orlando Magic rank sixth, allowing just 110.3 points per game. This season, the Jazz have been scoring 10.9 more points per game at home (123.2) compared to away games (112.3). However, their biggest struggle has been on the defensive end, where they're giving up an average of 120.4 points per game. They're also allowing opponents to shoot 48.3% from the field and 39.2% from three-point range. Otto Porter is expected to be unavailable for this match.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic have been on a roll, winning nine of their last 12 games, and they'll be looking to maintain their momentum after a convincing 108-81 home win against the Nets on Tuesday. Franz Wagner led the team with 21 points and five assists, shooting 8-of-11 from the field, while Moritz Wagner contributed 16 points. Currently, the Magic rank 26th in scoring in the NBA, averaging 111.4 points per game, while the Utah Jazz rank 25th in points allowed, giving up an average of 120.5 points per game. Orlando has been particularly strong defensively, conceding just 110.8 points per game, ranking fourth in steals per game and fifth in opponents' field goals. They've been especially effective at home, where they allow just 107.8 points per game, compared to 112.3 points per game on the road. There are uncertainties regarding Paolo Banchero and Jonathan Isaac's availability for the upcoming game.