With the NBA set to dazzle fans again, the fans’ attention is already shifting to the preseason encounter between the Orlando Magic and the San Antonio Spurs. After all, the Magic returns pretty healthy, having posted a 47-35 record the previous season and is set to battle the Spurs from a poor 22-60 record. The game is configured for Wednesday and is intended to show off prospects and readiness at the Frost Bank Center. This encounter gives insight into the preparation of the teams as they adjust their clubs and provides hope for NBA winning free picks.
Orlando Magic vs. San Antonio Spurs Prediction 10/9/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Frost Bank Center |
| TV: | CW35 |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Orlando Magic (47-35 Last season) vs. San Antonio Spurs (22-60 Last season)
The Orlando Magic capped a nice season as they have performed well and even though in their last five games, their form slightly dipped, going 2-3. Just last year, they were quite efficient against the spread when they went on the road with 23 games and 18 losses, which could point to their road game stress management skills. Another comparison that is almost always brought up is the one against teams like Sacramento, the point spread for which is indicative of a team playing small favorites and how consistently and tactically effectively such winners perform.
On the other hand, the San Antonio Spurs find themselves in a rebuilding phase, as reflected in their performance from the previous season. Overall, it was a rather disastrous season for them as they were able to manage a 3-2 in the last five games played thus matching their spread in the latter part of the season. Their attempts mirror the Wizards, emphasizing a strong draft and development and now this strategy might finally yield results. Most probably with a young team management of the Spurs is planning to develop better fundamental stats and win such close games.
Paolo Banchero (PF) vs. Victor Wembanyama (C)
Paolo Banchero, coming off a superb first season with Magic, is a player to watch out for. Last season saw him record an average of 22.6 points in addition to close to 7 rebounds which characterized his two-way performance. With that combination of physical attributes and skills, it is very hard for any team to defend him. Banchero’s improvement during the offseason will be crucial for the Magic’s success this year.
Victor Wembanyama for the Spurs is another key player, as the young center not only has the unique skill set for the position but also averaged over 21 points and 10 rebounds last season; in addition, he had 3.6 blocks per game. His defensive skill and playmaking ability, including passing and shooting, provide extra strength to the Spurs’ strategy.
The duel between Banchero and Wembanyama will be crucial. It will be interesting to see how Wembanyama’s as of now, distinguished defensive skill will stand against Banchero’s innovative design and brute force. Each of them is capable of single-handedly changing the game – performance spent by the players who seek to find the opponent’s weak points will be interesting.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: Orlando Magic -1.5 (-110), Total Odds: 215.5
The betting odds are slightly in favor of the Magic, reflecting their more stable performance last season than the rebuilding Spurs. The total points over/under set at 215.5 suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Orlando Magic Betting Trends
The Magic have shown they can cover the spread, especially in away games, which might influence betting trends in this preseason matchup. Their tendency to go over the total in most games hints towards preferring a faster, more offensive style of play.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
The Spurs’ trends are inclined to break expectations, especially when underestimated, which has been shared given their recent records. Their performance towards the end of last season suggested potential improvements that might affect their ATS records this preseason.
Orlando Magic vs. San Antonio Spurs 10/9/24 Betting Picks
In view of the teams’ forms and last season’s data, the advantage in this match should favour the Magic most notably with their good road ATS record. But one must also have in mind the summer context and youth of the Spurs which never ceases to amaze. This contest could prove more competitive than the odds imply which is of great interest for those ones who are after underdog values.
Looking at the historical performance of the Magic, it can be wise for bettors to place smart money on the Magic covering the spread. Going by the over and under on the total points scored may be a better option since both teams may play to their strengths offensively. Given both teams’ abilities as well as their previous patterns, taking the over on total points could present a worthwhile betting opportunity for those seeking premium matchup tips.