The Orlando Magic will host the New York Knicks on Saturday, aiming to extend their home winning streak to five games. The matchup, scheduled for 5 p.m. EST at the Amway Center in Orlando, will feature two teams with contrasting records in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks currently hold a 9-5 record and sit third, while the Magic are 9-7, positioned ninth.
Orlando’s recent performance at home has been impressive, with the team winning its last four games. They have a balanced record of 6-6 in Eastern Conference contests. Notably, the Magic rank eighth in the league for defensive rebounds, averaging 33.8 per game, with rookie sensation Paolo Banchero leading the charge at 7.8 per game. In contrast, the Knicks have a 6-5 record against Eastern Conference opponents, showcasing their strength on the offensive boards by averaging 14.6 rebounds per game, driven by Mitchell Robinson‘s impressive 5.4.
Both teams have shown offensive prowess this season. The Magic boast a shooting percentage of 47.1%, just edging out the Knicks, who allow 47.0% shooting from their opponents. The Knicks themselves shoot at 45.8%, slightly lower than the 46.3% that the Magic’s opponents have managed against them. This matchup marks the second meeting of the season; the Magic triumphed in their last encounter on November 13, 2023, winning 124-107. In that game, Franz Wagner delivered a standout performance, scoring 28 points.
Recent Performances and Player Highlights
In their last ten games, both teams have shown formidable records. The Magic are 7-3, averaging 117.4 points, 45.7 rebounds, and 26.4 assists, while shooting 46.9% from the field. Their opponents during this stretch averaged 109.0 points. The Knicks mirror this success with a 7-3 record as well, averaging 124.9 points, 46.0 rebounds, and 29.0 assists, shooting 47.8% from the field; however, their opponents have scored an average of 116.7 points against them.
Individual performances have been crucial for both teams. For the Magic, Franz Wagner is averaging 22.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. Jalen Suggs is also making waves, averaging 23.0 points over the last ten games. On the Knicks’ side, Karl-Anthony Towns contributes significantly, averaging 21.5 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. Furthermore, Miles McBride has been productive, averaging 3.0 made three-pointers over the same period.
Injury Updates
Injuries may play a role in the upcoming matchup. For the Magic, Moritz Wagner is confirmed out due to a knee injury, while Paolo Banchero is listed as day-to-day with a groin issue. The Knicks will also be without OG Anunoby, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury.
As both teams prepare for this Saturday showdown, fans can expect a high-energy battle with significant playoff implications early in the season. The Magic will look to leverage their home advantage while the Knicks aim to assert their dominance in the Eastern Conference.