Portland Trail Blazers vs Orlando Magic: Prediction, Starting Lineups and Betting Tips | April 1, 2024

The depleted Portland Trail Blazers are persevering through a grueling seven-game road trip and will now face the Orlando Magic in Florida. In their previous encounter, Portland suffered a 102-97 defeat and their chances of avoiding a sweep are slim due to several injuries. Malcolm Brogdon, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe, all key players, will be sidelined for the rematch.

Meanwhile, Orlando is at the opposite end when it comes to team health. All of its players are currently active and the team is eager to capitalize on its superior roster. With the playoff race heating up, the Magic are a team in need of success.

Portland’s hopes rest on avoiding being blown away in the first few minutes. Led by Scoot Henderson and Deandre Ayton, they will attempt to compete, but it remains uncertain for how long they can keep it close.

NBA Game Preview: Portland Trail Blazers vs Orlando Magic

The matchup between the Portland Trail Blazers and Orlando Magic will take place at the Kia Center. Local coverage of the game will be provided by Bally Sports Florida and ROOT SPORTS/ROOT SPORTS Plus. Fans who are not within these regions can still watch the game by subscribing to the NBA League Pass.

Moneyline: Blazers (+950) against Magic (-1700)

Over/Under: Blazers (o2017.5 -110) vs. Magic (u207.5 -110)

Preview: Portland Trail Blazers vs Orlando Magic

Despite the month-long March struggles of the Portland Trail Blazers, their misfortune is likely to continue into April. With only four wins last month, they may not secure another victory until the end of the regular season, considering their challenging schedule. At this point, the team will only be playing for pride. Head coach Chauncey Billups will take advantage of this opportunity to assess the players on his roster.

The Orlando Magic dominated against the injury-plagued Memphis Grizzlies with a final score of 118-88 on Saturday. In their next game, they hope to continue to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference or potentially climb higher, as they face another depleted team from Portland. Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Cole Anthony will aim to secure an early lead against the Blazers within the first 12 minutes of the match.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Brooklyn Nets: Starting lineups, subs and rotations

The starting lineup for the Portland Trail Blazers will likely include Jabari Walker at forward, Kris Murray also at forward, Deandre Ayton at center, and Scoot Henderson and Rayan Rupert as guards.

Despite facing adversity, Dalano Banton has consistently performed well as a bench player for the Blazers, and it is likely that he will continue to hold onto his role as the team’s sixth-man. Coach Billups will make adjustments to his rotation based on the responses of his players to the challenges they face.

The starting lineup for the Orlando Magic is likely to consist of Paolo Banchero at power forward, Franz Wagner at small forward, Wendell Carter Jr. at center, Jalen Suggs at shooting guard, and Markelle Fultz at guard.

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley could be intrigued to witness the performance of his young players against a depleted opponent. There is a possibility of rookie Anthony Black receiving early playing time and having an extended role.

Expert Picks and Predictions for Portland Trail Blazers vs Orlando Magic

Deandre Ayton’s current over/under points prop is set at 18.5. As a result of injuries, the Blazers have been relying heavily on their center to increase his scoring output and he delivered last month with an average of 23.4 PPG. With few other players able to contribute offensively, Ayton is expected to exceed his points prop with ease.

Paolo Banchero is given a 21.5 over/under points prop, after having an inconsistent scoring performance in March. It is possible that he will have a strong start in his first game this month, particularly because the opposing team is missing key players.

Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers vs Orlando Magic

The Blazers are facing a tough situation with a depleted roster and the added pressure to secure wins. If Jerami Grant is unable to play, Portland’s struggles will be even more difficult. The Magic are expected to come out on top, but the Blazers might be able to beat the spread if they give more playing time to their bench players.