Orlando Magic (23-22) vs. San Antonio Spurs (10-36)
Orlando Magic vs. San Antonio Spurs 1/31/24 – As the NBA season continues its thrilling journey, fans and bettors alike are eagerly looking forward to the Orlando Magic and San Antonio Spurs matchup on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. With the Magic holding a respectable 23-22 record and the Spurs struggling at 10-36, this game, set at the Frost Bank Center at 8:00 PM ET and broadcasted on BSSW, promises to be an intriguing clash. The implications for free NBA game picks are substantial, as both teams come into this game with contrasting recent forms and expectations.
Orlando Magic have shown glimpses of brilliance this season despite their middle-of-the-pack standing. Averaging 111.3 points per game with an impressive 46.8% field goal percentage and 10.7 average 3-point field goals made per game at 34% 3-point shooting may not be top in league but they do manage to rack up points quickly. Their defense averages 43.3 rebounds and 8.1 steals per game to keep opponents’ plays from happening; however, their turnover rate of 13.9 could pose issues moving forward.
Contrariwise, the San Antonio Spurs have not lagged behind in terms of scoring; averaging 112.9 points per game on average despite their disappointing win-loss record. Their higher field goal attempts (91.2 per game) point towards an aggressive offensive approach and they excel at three-point shooting by making 12.7 three point attempts per game with an average success rate of 34.5%; they also average slightly more assists (29.4 per game).
Orlando Magic vs. San Antonio Spurs 1/31/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Frost Bank Center |
| TV: | BSSW |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Paolo Banchero (PF) vs. Victor Wembanyama (C)
Paolo Banchero has put up impressive numbers during his rookie campaign, averaging 22.6 points, 7 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game. He has started in all 45 games he’s played while seeing 34.8 minutes of action each night. Banchero is shooting an efficient 46.8% from the field but could improve his 34% clip from deep. He has shown the versatility to score from all areas of the court. However, his defensive metrics leave something to be desired, posting just 1 steal and 0.6 blocks.
Victor Wembanyama has also put up strong stats as a rookie, recording 20.5 points, 10.1 rebounds and a league-leading 3.1 blocks per outing. Like Banchero, he has started every game he’s appeared in while playing 28.5 minutes per contest. He is shooting 46.2% overall but an impressive 34.5% on threes. Wembanyama’s ability to protect the rim is game-changing, backed up by his 7.9 defensive boards. However, he struggles with turnovers, coughing it up 3.4 times per night.
This battle features one of the most well-rounded rookie scorers in Banchero against the league’s most dominant interior defender in Wembanyama. Banchero should look to leverage his strength and post skills against the lanky Wembanyama down low. Meanwhile, Wembanyama’s defensive presence could bother Banchero. His weakside shot blocking ability will make the Orlando forward work for every bucket near the basket.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds:TBD
As the betting odds for the game are yet to be determined, it’s crucial to analyze the team dynamics and recent performances. Given the Magic’s more balanced approach and slightly better standing, they might enter the game as slight favorites.
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
The Magic have struggled to cover spreads recently, going 2-3 ATS over their past five contests. Orlando is just 14-10 against the spread away from home this season. However, the Magic have been strong to the over, going over the total in three of their last five and nine of their previous 21 road games. Backing the over looks wise given the Spurs’ porous defense.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
The Spurs have suddenly turned a corner ATS, covering in four of their last give matchups. San Antonio is an even 12-12 versus the number as hosts this campaign. Like Orlando, totals have also trended over for the Spurs of late, going over in three of five and 15 of 22 at the home. With two leaky defenses on display, the over has appeal once again.
Orlando Magic vs. San Antonio Spurs 1/31/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent forms and performances, this game could be closer than the standings suggest. The Magic, with their balanced offense and decent road record, might have a slight edge. However, the Spurs’ recent uptick in form, especially against the spread, can’t be ignored.
For bettors, this might be a game where looking at the over/under market could be more beneficial than picking a winner, especially given both teams’ recent trends in high-scoring games. The key battle between Banchero and Wembanyama will be crucial, but the supporting cast on both teams will also play a significant role in determining the outcome. For premium game day picks, keeping an eye on the announced odds and any last-minute lineup changes will be key.
Free Pick and Prediction: Orlando Magic 115, San Antonio Spurs 110.