Orlando Magic vs New Orleans Pelicans: Prediction, Starting Lineups and Betting Tips | April 3, 2024

The second round of the season series between the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans will take place on Wednesday in Louisiana. After a 121-106 victory in their previous matchup about 10 days ago, Orlando aims to maintain their dominance in the head-to-head competition. Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Cole Anthony will strive for another win on the road in the upcoming rematch.

The Pelicans will face the challenge of evening the series without the presence of Brandon Ingram, who will once again be sidelined and unable to play in the rematch. Additionally, the absence of Jose Alvarado will further complicate their efforts to seek revenge. However, Zion Williamson has been given the green light to play, and he will take charge of his team’s defense on their home court.

NBA Game Preview: Orlando Magic vs New Orleans Pelicans

The upcoming game between the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans will take place at the Smoothie King Center.

The game will be broadcast live on both Bally Sports New Orleans and Bally Sports Florida. However, basketball fans who reside outside of these regions can still watch the game by subscribing to the NBA League Pass streaming service.

Moneyline: Pelicans (-200) vs. Magic (+165)

Over/Under: Magic (209.5 -110) vs. Pelicans (209.5 -110)

Matchup between the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans

Since the last week of March, the Orlando Magic’s performance has been lacking. Although they managed to secure victories against the Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers, it could be argued that their overall gameplay was subpar.

The Magic narrowly escaped defeat against the weakened Blazers with a score of 104-103 on Monday. They will need to adapt their playing style against the Pelicans in order to secure a victory on the road.

Despite suffering losses to the Boston Celtics, OKC Thunder, and Phoenix Suns during their five-game homestand, the New Orleans Pelicans were able to secure a victory against the Milwaukee Bucks on Mar. 28. If they are able to tie the series against Orlando, it will help alleviate the impact of these losses.

Despite Ingram’s absence being a hindrance, the Pelicans appear to have lost the sense of urgency that was prominent in previous weeks. In order to avoid a repeat of their slow start against Phoenix, New Orleans cannot afford to have a similar start in the rematch against Orlando.

Breaking Down the Starting Lineups and Rotations for the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans Game

The starting lineup for the Orlando Magic will consist of Paolo Banchero at power forward, Franz Wagner at small forward, Wendell Carter Jr. at center, and Gary Harris and Jalen Suggs at shooting guard positions.

On Wednesday, either Joe Ingles or Cole Anthony is expected to be the sixth man for the Magic. One of them may replace Harris in the rotation. In order to face the Pelicans’ strong frontline, Jonathan Isaac or Mo Wagner may also be subbed in early for Carter.

The New Orleans Pelicans will start the game with Zion Williamson as power forward, Herb Jones as small forward, Jonas Valanciunas as center, and CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III as shooting guards.

Willie Green, the coach of the Pelicans, has been adjusting his player rotations according to the flow of the game. Larry Nance Jr. and Naji Marshall are both options to sub in early from the bench and aid in containing Banchero and Wagner.

Top Betting Tips for Orlando Magic vs New Orleans Pelicans

On Wednesday, Zion Williamson has a points prop of 26.5 against Orlando. In his past five games, he has been a daunting threat to opposing defenses, averaging 29.6 PPG on an impressive 61.4% shooting. Given his recent performance, it is highly likely that he will surpass the points prop.

Paolo Banchero’s over/under points prop is set at 21.5. In contrast to Williamson, Banchero has experienced inconsistent scoring in the past four weeks. He struggled to score 28 points in consecutive games against the Grizzlies and the Blazers.

To prevent him from surpassing his points prop, New Orleans plans to assign their defensive ace Herb Jones to guard him.

Prediction: Orlando Magic vs New Orleans Pelicans

Despite being on a two-game winning streak, the Orlando Magic have yet to showcase their strongest performance on the court.

It is probable that Orlando’s streak will come to an end at the Smoothie King Center when they face off against the New Orleans Pelicans. After a lackluster performance against Phoenix two nights ago, the home team may regain their assertiveness and defeat the visiting team with a favorable spread.