- When: Thursday, March 21th at 7:10 PM ET
- Who: New Orleans Pelicans at Orlando Magic
- Where: Kia Center in Orlando, FL
With the Pelicans soaring on a winning streak and the Magic facing tougher competition, my money is on New Orleans clinching this high-stakes battle.
As the NBA season barrels towards an epic conclusion, the upcoming clash between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Orlando Magic is setting up to be more than just a regular-season matchup.
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Game Preview
It's a glimpse into the playoffs' potential drama, and here's why I'm backing the Pelicans to win this high-octane showdown.
| Moneyline |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans Pelicans | -130 | -135 | -135 |
| Orlando Magic | +110 | +115 | +115 |
First off, let's talk momentum. The Pelicans have been electric, securing seven wins in their last eight games. This isn't just a hot streak; it's a statement.
They've toppled teams left and right, including a solid victory against the Brooklyn Nets, in which they never let the lead dip into single digits in the second half.
When a team can dominate like that on the road, it tells you they're ready for any challenge. On the other hand, while the Magic have clinched a play-in spot, it's crucial to note that their recent successes have come primarily against teams with losing records.
The true test of their mettle comes in games like these, and recent patterns suggest they might struggle to step up in class.
Digging deeper into the rosters, the Pelicans' depth has been a game-changer. Their bench outscoring the Nets' bench 28-9 in the first half of their last game highlights their ability to maintain pressure without relying solely on their starters.
.@jj_redick is impressed by Zion:
"That's the Zion Williamson coming out of Duke that we all expected. He's here right now." pic.twitter.com/CK3SDv2ccL
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 20, 2024
And then there's Zion Williamson — a force of nature in the second half, demonstrating time and again that he can carry the team when it counts.
While showing promise, the Magic have had to navigate injuries to key players like Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, which could impact their performance in tightly contested matches.
Statistics don't lie, and the Pelicans are matching their win total from last season with games to spare, clinching a second consecutive winning season for the first time since 2008-09.
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Total Points
This kind of consistency is what makes champions, and it's clear the Pelicans are building something special.
| Total Points | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 209.5 Points | -110 | -110 | -115 |
| Under 209.5 Points | -110 | -110 | -105 |
The Magic are a team on the rise on their quest for their first playoff appearance since 2020, but facing a seasoned and surging Pelicans squad might just be too big a hurdle at this juncture.
Paolo behind-the-back. Jalen didn't even need to see it go in. Showtime in Orlando.
(via @OrlandoMagic) pic.twitter.com/uomzjGAyY7
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 20, 2024
The betting odds also speak volumes. Taking the Pelicans on the moneyline at -135 is not just a smart bet; it reflects their current form and potential.
Coupling this with an Over 209.5 points at -110 odds makes sense when considering the offensive firepower on both sides.
The Pelicans' recent performances, especially on the road, suggest they can push the pace and rack up the points, while the Magic, playing at home, will be eager to prove they can hang with the big dogs, likely leading to a high-scoring affair.
In the end, this isn't just about one game. It's about trajectory, depth, and the ability to perform under pressure.
The New Orleans Pelicans have shown they possess all three, making them the smart pick to emerge victorious in this anticipated matchup against the Orlando Magic.
As the playoffs loom, games like these are crucial proving grounds, and the Pelicans are primed to show they're not just participants but contenders.
So, as we gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating clash, all signs point to New Orleans flying high to victory.
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