Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic: Game Preview and Predictions

The Indiana Pacers are set to face the Orlando Magic on November 13, 2024, at 7 p.m. ET at the Kia Center in Orlando. With both teams showing fluctuations in form, this matchup promises to be a heated battle as the Pacers aim to build on recent progress against the Magic, who are riding a three-game winning streak.

Team Analysis

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers (5-5) are coming off a thrilling 132-121 victory against the New York Knicks, where standout performances from Bennedict Mathurin (38 points, 11 rebounds) and Tyrese Haliburton (35 points, 14 assists) demonstrated their offensive firepower. Mathurin has averaged an impressive 24.2 points and 8.2 rebounds over his last six outings, indicating he is crucial in leading the Pacers' attack.

However, the team is facing injury challenges, with several players on the bench for the foreseeable future. Notable Injuries:

• Obi Toppin (ankle) - questionable
• Aaron Nesmith (ankle)
• Andrew Nembhard (knee)
• Isaiah Jackson (Achilles)
• James Wiseman (Achilles)

The Pacers' starting lineup likely includes:

• Pascal Siakam: 20.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG
• Bennedict Mathurin: 19.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG
• Myles Turner: 17.4 PPG, 7.3 RPG
• Ben Sheppard: 5.9 PPG
• Tyrese Haliburton: 16.7 PPG, 8.3 APG

Orlando Magic

The Magic (6-6) have shown resilience in the absence of their star player, Paolo Banchero, who is sidelined with an oblique injury. Over the past three games, the Magic have dominated their opponents, propelled by the performance of Franz Wagner, averaging 27.3 points per game. Their recent successes indicate that they have adapted yet retained their competitive edge.

Key Injury Updates:

• Wendell Carter Jr. (foot) - missed recent games
• Paolo Banchero (oblique) - out long-term

The expected Magic starting five includes:

• Tristan da Silva: 8.0 PPG
• Franz Wagner: 19.9 PPG, 5.1 RPG
• Goga Bitadze: 6.7 PPG, 6.7 RPG
• Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: 6.9 PPG
• Jalen Suggs: 15.3 PPG, reliable in both scoring and assists

Highlights of Previous Meetings

This game marks the third encounter between the two teams this season, with each winning at home in their previous matchups. Notably, the Pacers lost to the Magic earlier when Banchero scored 50 points but rebounded with a win at Gainbridge Fieldhouse against a depleted Magic squad.

Betting Insights

Current Odds

• Favorite: Pacers by 2.5 points
• Over/Under: 227.5 total points
• Moneyline: Pacers -140, Magic +115

Best Bets

• Tyrese Haliburton Over 18.5 PTS: Solid recent performance makes this a favorable bet.
• Franz Wagner Over 25.5 PTS: Expect him to step up as the primary scoring option.
• Magic (+2.5): With their recent victories, they might cover the spread.

Trends to Watch

• The Pacers rank high in scoring but struggle on the defensive end, while the Magic excel defensively. This dynamic could play a crucial role in game outcomes.

How to Watch

• Date: November 13, 2024
• Time: 7:00 PM ET
• TV: FanDuel Sports Network
• Live Stream: Available through Fubo, offering a free trial for first-time users.
• Radio Coverage: Listen in at 93.5 and 107.5 FM in Indianapolis.

This matchup is shaping up to be a critical one for both teams as they navigate injuries and seek momentum. Stay tuned as the Pacers take on the Magic in a game that promises excitement and strategic playoff implications.