New Orleans Pelicans vs. Orlando Magic 3/21/24 – The New Orleans Pelicans (41-26) are set to clash with the Orlando Magic (40-28) in what promises to be a riveting showdown this Thursday night. Both teams are showcasing strong records this season, making this game a critical juncture as they jockey for playoff positioning. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly searching for the NBA free prediction today, as the outcome of this game could have significant implications on the standings.
| When: | Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Kia Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Naji reacts to his lob to Zion 🤝 pic.twitter.com/oKM8eB8LKd
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) March 21, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pelicans | -2 -113 | o209.5 -110 | -135 |  |
| Magic | +2 -107 | u209.5 -110 | +115 | |
| ||||
Zion Williamson (PF) vs. Paolo Banchero (PF)
During his season, Zion Williamson proved to be unstoppable, appearing in 56 games and starting in all, amassing 30.9 minutes played. This notable scorer’s numbers can never be denied. He averages 22.6 points a game with 5.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists. The player’s inside dominance and agility may prove him to be the key factor in the game. Nonetheless, his 2.5 per game turnovers tell us a weakness that may become a vulnerable point.
However, Paolo Banchero, who has not only scored the same numbers but even higher (22.8ppg, 6.8 rpg, 5.3 apg over 66 games), has only set his scoring mark at 22.8, and keeps up with his other benchmarks. Banchero displays his versatility as a power forward by being a beast, yet at the same time being the smartest guy on the planet. The only worry about his high turnover rate of 3.1 per game might be the problem for the Superstar Pelicans that love capitalizing off their opponents’ mistakes.
The match is marked to rely a lot on the duel between Williamson and Banchero which is believed to be one of its best parts. Besides scoring points, they also would have other critical responsibilities like rebounding, assisting and altering her defensive guard’s movement. It is possible that this matchup’s results are moved towards fairness if the one who will impose their will while minimizing the number of errors does a good job.
Dynamic Offense vs. Balanced Play
The Pelicans ranks one of the best scoring offenses in the league with 116.1 points per game and a field goal percentage of 48.8, being evidence to their success in shooting. Their team play is revealed in their 27.2 assists per game, representing a squad which helps each other and makes the most opportunities for points. It owes its capability to prevail over any defense to a dynamic offense, which has its key element in Williamson among other players.
Steadfast Defense and Strategic Execution
The Orlando Magic places its focus slightly more on defensive output rather on offense with the averages of 110.7 points per game. The team, nevertheless, acquires the skills in their defensive moves and execution of any strategy on the court. The Als four blocks per game together averaging 5.2, that points to a challenge for the paint to stop the opponents easily from scoring. Such a combination or integration of both ends of the field is a passport for their victory this year.
NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
As the betting odds have yet to be determined, bettors are advised to keep a close eye on updates. The tight matchup suggests that the lines could be close, with potential value on either side depending on the spread and moneyline odds released closer to game time.
Trends
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
Pelicans are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
New Orleans are 3-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Pelicans are 18-14 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Pelicans’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 15 of Pelicans’ 33 last games at home
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
Magic are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Orlando Magic are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Magic are 22-14 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Magic’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 14 of Magic’ 32 last games at home
Injuries
New Orleans Pelicans
Matt Ryan SF Is “?” Thursday vs Orlando, Illness
Dyson Daniels SF Is out indefinitely, Knee
Orlando Magic
No reported injuries
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Orlando Magic Betting Picks
The Pelicans performed well recently, especially their menacing attack, so they could have some bit of an advantage. Nonetheless, the Magic’s stubbornness and even gameplay could be underestimated that lead the game to become either a nail-biter or not. Punters should take into account the Pelicans’ capability of out scoring to the spread, specifically as the team puts out a lot of fire in the offence and they recently show positive trends.
As far as the Pelicans are concerned, they may be the better bet, but smart bettors will be quick to wait for the final betting lines before they bet for the best value. The prop bets depending on the players like Williamson and Banchero which could be of significant value is another possibility because of their key role in their team. With the top-tier betting online, this game definitely is for both teams, but due to their scoring ability and the form, which shows in last games, the advantage goes to the Pelicans. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Pelicans 112, Magic 108.
